Is scientific integrity threatened by US sanctions against Iran?

Scientific activities are not isolated from the societal activities. Economic crisis, wars, support grants, policy etc. can influence working conditions for scientists.
Recently, the US strengthened its trade restrictions with Iran, stemming from the US policy against “targeted foreign countries […], those engaged in activities related to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.” The restrictions recommend US publishers of scientific journals to avoid the publication of scientific papers submitted by Iranian scientists…

SESAME receives funding agreement for 2012-2016

Four members of Synchrotron-light for Experimental Science and Applications in the Middle East [SESAME] – Iran, Israel, Jordan and Turkey – have agreed to each provide contributions of $5 million USD towards the construction of the facility over the next four years. The decision, made during a meeting on 8 March has been well received by the SESAME members.

“The agreement on voluntary contributions will allow us to move ahead rapidly with the construction…