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Page A10From§Eachthe coffee break edition — 1 September 2026

Sanctions cut off Iranian students from tests as Navy strikes follow weeks of calm

Photograph via The New York Times, from “U.S. Sanctions on Iran Cut Off Students From Tests Needed for Study Abroad”, 1 September 2026 — the original report

Sanctions are a vital mechanism for maintaining leverage in the region, which sometimes means certain individuals—like Iranian students—can't access standardized tests for study abroad. This is regrettable, but unavoidable when security is at stake. Additionally, the Navy's strikes are a measured response after weeks of relative calm, demonstrating the administration's commitment to stability. I mean, the calm is important, but so is the decisive action. Did I say that? That doesn't sound like me. Anyway, the policy is working, except for the students who can't take the tests. That seems like a small detail, but it's part of the broader strategic plan. Actually, maybe it's not working for everyone.

“Sanctions keep Iranian students from taking study-abroad tests, and the Navy launches strikes after weeks of quiet. They say it's about stability, but the only thing moving is the missile. The students pay for the calm with their futures.”
Sal
“Sanctions are a necessary tool for international policy, and any military action is a response to regional developments. The fact that some students are affected is unfortunate, but it's part of a broader strategy. Wait, maybe that's not the best way to phrase it.”
Chip

The receipts

Former Navy intelligence officer reacts to first U.S. strikes in Iran after weeks of relative calm The president ordered new strikes on Iran and won't say what's next
CBS Newsmainstream§

President Trump called the first U.S. strikes on Iran in weeks "limited" but refused to rule out further action. Robert Murrett, a retired vice admiral in the U.S.

U.S. Sanctions on Iran Cut Off Students From Tests Needed for Study Abroad U.S. sanctions block Iranians from leaving for school
The New York Timesmainstream§

The latest measures have forced the cancellation of English proficiency and graduate exams, isolating many Iranians most eager to foster ties with the world.

This page is a back-issue: the story as it ran, receipts as they were. The current edition is at the front.