In this context, the trial provides a litmus test as to whether the overwhelming reformist victory in parliament can translate into real changes in Iran's existing power structures. Iran, with the second largest Jewish population in the Middle East after Israel, is still home to approximately 25,000 Jews. Although they are better off than Jews in countries like Syria, not all has been well for the community and at least seventeen have been executed since the Islamic Revolution. In two waves in January and March 1999, Iranian authorities detained thirteen Iranian Jews and eight Muslims in Shiraz and Isfahan. Furthermore, three of the accused are now out on bail.
Timing threatens to exacerbate the symbolism of any verdict.
The trial falls just two days before the Shi'i commemoration of Ashura, when religious passions traditionally reach their zenith, a week before the start of the Jewish holiday of Passover, and eight days before the second round in the Majlis elections. Even if the trial is delayed, it will come against a sensitive political and religious backdrop. Since Khatami's allies swept to victory in the first round of the Majlis elections on February 17, winning well over half of the 290 seats, the reformists have been constantly challenged. Sa'id Hajjarian, one of Khatami's closest advisors, remains paralyzed after an assassination attempt on March 12. Yunesi's complaint suggests that hardliners worry about their control over the judiciary.