easiest way to play as Iran?

Well I didn't find Iran in the 600AD start so I just took the 3000BC start and played as Persia. same thing, I thought.

It all went well and I stationed most of my troops at the western border to Arabia and the northern border to defend the barbarians. I was caught by surprise when the Seljuks spawned next to my quite defenseless capitol and destroyed most of my glorious empire.
didn't know that event from normal RFC
frustrated I left the game ( ) and now my question is... what is the easiest way to play as Iran? Since I can't take them directly in the 600AD start... should I take the Civ that is closest to 1500AD and then do I get the option to switch to Iran?

Yes, the option should say something along the lines of "a new civ is being born" and it will give you the option of playing as the civ currently being re/spawned.

Start a game as the Dutch. A few turns later you will be given an option to change to Iran.

great.taurus said:

Start a game as the Dutch. A few turns later you will be given an option to change to Iran.

Click to expand...

^^.........