Nick Berg's Blog: Shadows of Tehran Blog, page 4

How Iran’s “War on Dogs” Reflects a Broader Threat to Western Values

What Does Iran’s Crackdown on Dog Ownership Reveal About Authoritarian Ideology?

Iran’s war on dogs is far more than a simple ban on walking pets; it’s a visible manifestation of the regime’s ongoing campaign against Western freedoms and personal liberty. 

In the past year, authorities have expanded bans on dog walking to more than 25 cities—including Tehran and Isfahan—empowering police to fine ...

The Burgeoning Bookshelf Review of Shadows of Tehran

"Shadows of Tehran would have to be the most amazing and terrifying story I've read for a long time." Review by Veronica of The Burgeoning Bookshelf Shadows of Tehran would have to be the most amazing and terrifying story I've read for a long time.

Shadows of Tehran is a fictional tale inspired by true events from the author's lived experience...

Israel-Iran Proxy Conflict: Western Activism, Hamas Support, and Overlooked Human Rights Contradictions

What Sparked the Latest Israel-Iran Crisis—and Why Is It More Than Just Headlines?

A dramatic Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities has reignited global debate, but beneath the headlines, a deeper shadow war rages.

On June 13, 2025, Israel launched a sweeping military operation targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missile sites, and high-ranking military commanders.

The Isra...

Veterans of Foreign Wars: Honoring Those Who Fought Beyond Borders

Why Do Veterans of Foreign Wars Understand Global Governance Better Than World Leaders?

Veterans of Foreign Wars bring unparalleled firsthand experience from conflict zones, cultural immersion, and strategic military training that provides deeper insights into international relations than traditional diplomatic approaches. While world leaders often rely on theoretical frameworks and secondhand...

Books About Resistance: From Inner Wars to Global Uprisings

In an era marked by global unrest, cultural clashes, and personal upheavals, the stories we immerse ourselves in are more than mere entertainment—they’re lifelines. Reading books about resistance or narratives of resistance and resilience offers not just an escape but a means to understand, endure, and overcome adversity.

Why Do Resistance Stories Resonate So Deeply? ...

From Combat to Companion: The Role of Veteran Service Dogs

The journey from military service to civilian life is often complex, marked by unique challenges and the need for unwavering support. For many who have served, veteran service dogs have become indispensable partners in navigating this transition, offering more than just companionship—they provide a pathway to healing and renewed independence. Discover the vital role these specially trained canines play in the lives of...

Manhattan Book Review | Nick Berg’s Shadows of Tehran: A 5-Star Manhattan Book Review

Manhattan Book Review: "Shadows of Tehran is not an easy read, but it is a necessary one." Reviewed by Jessica Fahey Nick Berg’s Shadows of Tehran is a poignant, sprawling novel that captures the tension of dual identity with lyrical prose and unflinching honesty. Berg crafts an evocative narrative that moves from the fragrant courtyards of Tehra...

Voices of Freedom: Art, Resistance, and the Fight to Be Heard

Throughout history, in the face of oppression, injustice, and the silencing of essential truths, humanity has consistently found potent, enduring voices of freedom in the language of art.

From clandestine symbols etched onto ancient walls to the vibrant murals that reclaim public spaces today, creative dissent has served as a powerful conduit for resistance, a means to challenge entrenched power, and a testament to the...

Veterans Helping Veterans — Ricardo’s Journey to Finding Support

Who Is Ricardo and Why Does His Story Matter to Veterans Today?

Ricardo, the protagonist of Shadows of Tehran, is a Special Forces operator whose story draws heavily from the real-life experiences of Nick Berg, a Special Operations veteran. His journey through intense military training, combat in the Iran war with the United States, and the cultural conflict of his Iranian-American identity hi...

The Iranian Hostage Crisis: A Turning Point in U.S.-Iran Relations

What Was the Iranian Hostage Crisis? A Defining Moment in U.S.-Iran Relations

 In November 1979, Iranian militants seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, taking 52 American diplomats and citizens hostage for 444 days. This event marked a significant shift in U.S.-Iran relations and was a direct response to the U.S. granting asylum to the deposed Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, w...