Well, if that surprised you, then you'd better sit down before you read this (though if you're at your computer, you're probably sitting already)..........women are members of parliament there and, hold on to your seat.........the Iranian gov't is set up to have several vice-presidents (don't know the exact number), and women can and do hold that position.
Surprised?
Sounds likie I need to do some studying, since I am rarely surprised twice in one day...I am truly surprised, and very confused, since I have tended to compare Iranian culture with Arab culture without really separating the two sufficiently. I won't be so glib next time...