He also lauded the Islamic Republic and the people for their achievements over a 30 year history, saying they have prevented Western "enemies from accomplishing their evil goals."

VOA: standard.2009.07.20

Bowler, a Thailand-based Australian, has run half a dozen of the tours in recent years, during which participants are taught the basics of Islamic practice, study Islamic history and calligraphy, pray in mosques and live and eat with Muslim families.

CNN: SHARE THIS

And younger Iranians have reacted against an unrelenting diet of Islamic history and culture by seeking out pre-Islamic glories.

ECONOMIST: Iran's heritage

Sitting at a table in the mosque's library with three or four other students, he listened to Mr. Saied discuss Islamic history and sometimes ridicule other religions.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: An insight into the fifth column