Iranians Hope for Improved Economy in 2014

WASHINGTON —While Iran’s nuclear program, presidential elections and new talks with the West got most of the attention this past year, the issue that hits closest to home for most Iranians is the economy, which has been battered by international sanctions. Many analysts say it was the growing anger over rising inflation and high unemployment that paved the way for Iran’s new diplomatic opening to the West and the world.

Back in March 2013, Iranian consumers were furious over nut prices that had jumped ten-fold.

"It is the first time in thirty years that we haven’t put nuts and pistachios on our Haft-Seen," said Tehran resident Hamid Pourmand.