Since the hostage crisis in 197980, the U.S. has avoided high-level diplomacy with Iran. Recently, however, Irans huge oil and natural gas reserves, its proximity to Iraq, and its push to develop a nuclear energy program has made the country an important player not only in the Middle East but on the international stage as well. This series takes a closer look at Iran, its leaders, and its people. How will the country wield its newfound influence?