Iran on the brink

Andreas Malm and Shora Esmailian, Pluto, 288 pages, paperback, £17.99

This is an excellent book on the explosion of labour struggles in Iran since 2004. Industrial action has been taking place across the country marking the beginning of a new labour movement. It started with copper smelting workers in January 2004 and has spread to bus drivers, teachers, car workers, textile workers, nurses, bakers and brick-makers.

Given that independent union organising is illegal in Iran, the book contains tales of incredible courage and savage repression. The book also assesses the different organisations that have sprung up and considers the strengths and weaknesses of the various committees and parties involved.

The second part of the book, dealing with the threat of an attack on Iran by the US and its allies is sobering - the writers clearly oppose plans for a war but this does not soften their stance towards the Iranian government. This is a vital read in the current international climate. Also see article page 10.