Opposition bombs Iran's intelligence headquarters in Teheran
Special to World Tribune.com
MIDDLE EAST NEWSLINE
Monday, July 17, 2000
CAIRO [MENL] -- Iran has been rocked by a new bombing campaign attributed to
the Baghdad-based opposition.
The Iraqi-backed Mujahdeen Khalq claimed it bombed the headquarters of
the Intelligence Ministry in Teheran. The group said in a statement that
Saturday's attack was in response to the Islamic republic's crackdown on
reformist groups, including a suppression of demonstrations last week. A
dozen people were injured in a police attack on demonstrators.
The Mujahadeen said the intelligence headquarters was heavily damaged
when it was struck by 20 mortars. Several people were said to have been
killed or injured.
Iran acknowledged the attack and said it took place about 9:40 local
time. But officials did not provide details.
In Teheran, residents said electricity was briefly cut in the
northeastern portion of the city. Last July the Khalq shelled the
Intelligence Ministry headquarters in Dezful in retaliation for the arrests
and executions of dissidents.
Meanwhile, U.S. officials said Iran is helping Iraq smuggle oil to
increase revenues for both countries. The officials said Baghdad has
obtained permission for the use of an Iranian Qais island in the Persian
Gulf.
They said the use of the oil as a transfer point in the smuggling
operation has yielded up to $40 million a month. The revenues are believed
to be divided by Baghdad and Teheran.
Iraq cannot export oil except through a humanitarian program directed by
the United Nations.
Monday, July 17, 2000
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