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July 30, 2013

Iran: Mourning Hikers, Hoping for Wisdom

So many people were touched by the story of the three Iranian climbers who successfully opened a new way to the summit of Broad Peak, yet were lost on the way down. Social networks buzzed with news, prayers, and remembrances of the climbers. Trees on Tehran's longest street were cut without permission. Stumps were left where once mighty trees stood. A member of the Darvish minority set himself on fire in front of Iran's parliament. Iran's mobile phone operator took the rare step of apologizing for insulting the country's Sunni minority. Finally, we ask if Rouhani's government can fulfill its promise of *hope and wisdom.*