While I do not work with this species, I think it is great that people are working with them. It's more than likely a multi-tiered issue why they are disappearing. As mentioned, habitat degradation and the pet trade have taken their toll. Viral illnesses that we are just beginning to understand in addition to issues such as Chytrid fungus may play a role as well.
http://www.iran-daily.com/1387/3353/html/iranica.htm
Not sure if anyone read this..
As far as reintroductions are concerned, it is hard enough for these programs to be introduced into the US let alone Iran. The US has no jurisdiction there and as relations between the two countries become increasingly intense, I would doubt that we would ever have a hand in such a reintroduction.
Turtle hobbyists (more like PhDs and DVMs) and conservation groups have helped establish reintroductions in countries such as India however, so it's not to say it will never happen. The hobbyists however will likely not be involved however. Why? There are many concerns over issues stated before that many hobbyists are either unaware of or do not have control of. An example would be biosecurity measures between species.
However, this post leads me back to my original question.
I was under the impression that CITES only involved the import or export of a species. Not the interstate transport of them. I thought that interstate transport was only affected by a federal USFWS threatened or endangered status or maybe the Lacy Act.
Can anyone please shed light on this issue with references please?