Kourosh Ziabari explains that sanctions imposed on Iran have not only been used as a beating stick by the US, but have also been profitable to those Iranians who have benefited from a corrupt industry of smuggling that developed as a consequence.
The Iranian government has invested heavily in trying to sway public attitudes to embrace closer relations with Russia; but a plurality of Iranians would like to see balanced ties with all nations and for Tehran to pursue a mature, pragmatic overseas agenda.