Opposition bombs Iran's intelligence headquarters in Teheran

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.