Pres. Obama shares the goals of the previous Admin. to contain Iran¿s strategic capabilities and regional influence, but he has formulated approaches that differ from those of its predecessor ¿ i.e. through expanded direct diplomatic engagement with Iran. Contents of this report: (1) Political History; (2) The Supreme Leader, His Powers, and Other Ruling Councils; The Pres: Mahmoud Ahmadinejad; (3) Human Rights and Dissent; (4) Iran¿s Strategic Capabilities and Weapons of Mass Destruction; (5) Foreign Policy and Support for Terrorist Groups; (6) Policy During the Clinton and George Bush Admin.; Overview of Obama Admin. Policy; Containment and Possible Mil. Action; Regime Change; Further International and Multilateral Sanctions; U.S. Sanctions.