Standing up to the sanctions
The preliminary deal between Iran and the West over the former's nuclear ambitions has paved the way - possibly - for a better future. Until then, Iranians will have to cope with the impact of Western sanctions.
Trying to get by
A street vendor at the bazaar of Mashhad presents his goods to passers-by. Many of those peddling their offerings struggle to make ends meet.
Run on the bank
Bozorg bazar, the main bazar in south Tehran. Banking operations with foreign countries are impossible due to the sanctions. Iranians have to use Dubai-run or Turkish banks for their money transactions.
Breadwinners
Women waiting in line to buy some bread outside a bakery in Mashhad. More Iranians have changed their habits, preferring to buy at the cheaper supermarkets rather than going to more expensive shops.
Thriving trade
Many commodities are not available on the official market due to the sanctions. That allows the black market to thrive and provide items that are in demand.
A diamond in the waste
An exchange shop for gemstones in Tehran. Many people invest in these stones because the devalutation of the Rial, the Iranian currency, has left it practically worthless.
Illegal bounty
Because of the sanctions, many people resort to exchanging dollars and euros illegally on the streets of the capital Tehran.
Paying the price
One of the most urgent problems of the Iranian economy is the devaluation of the Rial. Over the past two years, it has lost nearly two-thirds of its value. Inflation is rampant with conservative estimates putting it at 40 percent.
No magic carpet
Bozorg bazaar, the main bazaar in south Tehran. The carpet industry is very important for the Iranian economy but the export restrictions due to the sanctions are hitting profits hard.
The great satan?
The former US embassy was occupied by thousands of students immediately after the Islamic revolution in 1979. Students thought that American diplomats could organize another coup d'etat against Ayatollah Khomeini.