In "How Sanctions Work," Vali Nasr investigates the use of economic sanctions as a tool of foreign policy, focusing on the case of Iran. The book analyzes the impact of sanctions on Iran's economy, society, and political system. It explores the intended and unintended consequences of sanctions, assessing their effectiveness in achieving policy goals. Nasr examines the historical context, political dynamics, and international dimensions of sanctions against Iran. The book offers insights into the complexities of economic warfare and its implications for international relations. Through detailed analysis, Nasr provides a nuanced perspective on the use of sanctions as a means of coercion and influence.

Nargis Bajoli's 'Iran Reframed' explores the intricate dynamics between media and power within the Islamic Republic of Iran. The book delves into the regime's cultural production through comprehensive research involving numerous media professionals in Iran. It examines how these cultural producers navigate and shape the narrative landscape in the country. By focusing on the interactions between media and political authority, the book provides insights into the mechanisms of control and influence within the Iranian context. The study sheds light on the cultural and ideological underpinnings that define the Islamic Republic's public image and internal operations.