The story: Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf’s trip to Russia has created a controversy in Iran. No meeting was arranged between Qalibaf and Russian President Vladimir Putin, although conservatives had previously boasted about the importance of such a summit. As a result, many Iranians on social networks have slammed Qalibaf for what they call seeking to take advantage of a possible photo-op with Putin prior to the June presidential elections in Iran.

Coverage: Qalibaf’s travel to Moscow has once again polarized Iranians on social media, with hardliners and conservatives labeling the parliament speaker as the “trusted” figure...