When we were walking up Wisconsin Avenue earlier today, we came across some protesters standing outside Studio Infinity at W Place in Glover Park. Our first thought was, what’s the deal, are the people protesting cruelty to older people? (When this DCist used to live nearby, Glover Park residents often gawked at the large oversized posters in the window of the wellness center showing an older woman on an awkward wooden contraption that always looked like Juan Carlos Rolón was running a spa in his retirement. Of course, we kid.)
As it turns out, the group was protesting Iran, holding anti-Tehran placards saying that Iranians want democracy and similar things. But why in Glover Park? The building at 2209 Wisconsin Ave. is home to the Interest Section of the Islamic Republic of Iran. But you ask, didn’t the United States end formal diplomatic ties back during the Iranian Revolution a quarter century ago? Yes, technically, but like other countries that are not formally recognized by the State Department, (we’re looking at you, Taiwan … err, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office), Iran has an “interests section.”
Have you ever wanted to visit a Persian bazaar (shown above in this image from IranParadise.com), or the ancient ruins of Persepolis and (the more recent ruins of) Bam? Iran wants your tourist dollars. Just apply for a visa! It’s that easy! (UPDATE, Sunday, 9:30 p.m., There’ve been bomb blasts in Iran, the Post reports.)
From the Iranian interests office:
We are pleased to offer online application processing for some forms. You can submit your information securely online and we will process your request faster. You just need to register once and login.
Well maybe not that easy. While U.S. passports are valid for Iranian travel, the State Department warns that there are dangers. But that information could be out of date considering that this State Department information page says that the United States doesn’t have formal diplomatic relations with Iraq.
And then you might ask, wait, doesn’t Vice President Cheney live next door?
