Iran Editor

About the role

Middle East Broadcasting Networks (MBN) is the premier Arabic-first media organization that connects the Middle East and the United States. The company is in the midst of an exciting digital transformation and looking for energetic and talented people who care about journalism and the Middle East to join us on this journey. We provide original and indispensable reporting, perspectives and commentary on the Middle East and how America’s engagement impacts the region. MBN delivers content in both Arabic and English across multiple platforms, in formats including written articles, short-form video, newsletters, podcasts, data trackers and social media. Our target audience is decision-makers, influencers, and residents of key capitals across the Middle East, as well as the next generation of globally engaged, digitally connected youth.

MBN is seeking an experienced, highly connected Iran Editor to lead, plan, edit, and directly report its coverage of Iran and its influence across the Middle East. The Iran Editor role is a full-time staff position based at the MBN headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. This senior role combines editorial direction with original reporting, source development, and on-air analysis. The Iran Editor coordinates freelance contributors, develops enterprise stories, leads breaking-news coverage, curates a specialized newsletter, and contributes to video and podcasts. The role requires deep knowledge of Iran’s domestic politics, regional security, nuclear program and diplomacy, relations with the United States and neighboring countries, and economic conditions, including sanctions and energy markets.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily coverage and long-term editorial planning for Iran-related political, security, diplomatic, economic, and social developments.
• Commission, coordinate, and edit reporting from freelance and multimedia contributors.
• Align coverage with MBN editorial leadership and regional desks, accounting for reporting access and source safety.
• Pitch, report, write, and edit original investigative, analytical, and enterprise stories.
• Maintain a diverse network of political, diplomatic, security, economic, and civil-society sources.
• Conduct interviews and protect sensitive sources through appropriate confidentiality and secure communication practices.
• Lead breaking-news coverage, live blogs, rapid analysis, and digital updates.
• Edit and verify articles, scripts, and source material for accuracy, balance, clarity, and publication readiness.
• Ensure content meets MBN editorial standards, sourcing requirements, and applicable legal requirements.
• Write and curate an Iran-focused newsletter and contribute to videos, explainers, podcasts, and live appearances.
• Adapt coverage across Arabic and English platforms with consistent editorial context.
• Translate and contextualize Persian-language material, explaining its significance for regional and international audiences.
• Perform additional job-related duties and take on new responsibilities as needed based on organizational requirements and circumstances.