Here’s a look at this week’s interesting articles making news around the world.

Canada Closes Embassy in Iran and Expels Iranian Diplomats – NY Times (Editor’s Top Pick)

Iran, believed to be a threat to global security, has lost yet another diplomatic relationship. Iran’s nuclear program was one major issue Canada noted, as well as Iran’s relationships with Israel and Syria also factored into the decision to expel Iranian diplomats from Canada. Canada also cites Iran’s “blatant disregard” for the Vienna Convention’s guarantee of protection for diplomats as grounds for withdrawing their embassy from Iranian soil.

Japan, Russia to Work on Ties – Wall Street Journal
While Canada and Iran sever ties this week, Japan and Russia hope to strengthen their ties in response to the rise of China. Russia is thought to desire deeper ties with Japan to gain technological opportunities and access to joint natural-resource development. Meanwhile, Japan hopes to regain four islands, the Northern Territories, which have been under Russian control since the end of WWII (Kuril Islands dispute).

From disaster to triumph: A week in the life of Mallory Weggemann – CNN
On a lighter note, CNN recently profiled U.S. Paralympics swimmer and gold medal athlete Mallory Weggemann. We at the Weissman Center congratulate her on her success!