The story: The mayor of Iran’s capital, Alireza Zakani, has been criticized for pushing ahead with plans to build a mosque in a popular park in uptown Tehran. Critics say the initiative serves no purpose but to further Zakani’s personal goals. Supporters of the endeavor, however, argue that religious venues make larger parks safer for the public. Ultimately, the clash over the mosque project indicates the growing polarization of Iranian society.

The coverage: News emerged on social media on Feb. 27 that parts of Tehran’s old and popular Qeytarieh Park had been fenced off to...