Iran silent as its only ally sets talks with Israel

NICOSIA [MENL] -- Iran is silent.

Iranian leaders or government spokespeople have not formally reacted to the plans for the resumption of formal negotiations on Wednesday between Israel and Syria. Syria is regarded as Iran's only ally in the Arab world.

Iranian newspapers have reserved comment on the Syrian agreement to resume negotiations with Israel. The Iranian media have reported the developments without comment or analysis.

"EU summit praises Assad, Barak, revival of Mideast peace process," the Iran Daily said on Sunday.

Some analysts said Iran was taken by surprise by Syrian President Hafez Assad's decision to resume the negotiations with Israel. The decision came after a series of high-level meetings between the two countries to increase trade and Iranian help to Syria.

But other analysts said Iran's silence reflects understanding of the Syrian move and consultations in advance of Assad's decision.

Western intelligence agencies said Iran might remain silent but will not sit quietly as Israel and Syria move closer to an agreement. They said Iranian-sponsored terrorist groups are preparing attacks against Israeli and U.S. targets in the Middle East and Europe. The Iranian-backed Hizbullah said it will continue its guerilla campaign in south Lebanon.

Israeli officials have warned European governments of such a terrorist offensive. They said Hizbullah and Islamic Jihad have extended is activity to Europe to prepare for any eventual terrorist campaign on the continent. The Shi'ite group draws support from Muslim communities in Germany and particularly in Central Europe, such as Bosnia and Kosovo.

The London-based Sunday Times said two Hizbullah agents were killed last year during training for a suicide mission in Germany. The newspaper quoted Israeli sources as saying that Hizbullah, with support from Iranian embassies, planned to use speed boats filled with explosives to ram into their target.

U.S. officials are also concerned over the prospect of attacks. The State Department has warned U.S. citizens to be on alert over the next few weeks.

On Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright said she had information indicating attacks on Americans travelling aboard "could be planned for locations throughout the world where large gatherings and celebrations will be taking place. There are a number of groups that we are watching."

Ms. Albright said Saudi billionaire Osama Bin Laden is one group being monitored. "There are a variety of groups that we have been concerned about and are watching," she said. "And we are concerned, there's no question about it, and we have to be vigilant, which is why we put out the warning.''

Officials are also concerned that Iran will order terrorist attacks in South America, particularly around Argentina. The concern comes as Iran is trying to restore ties with Argentina, harmed by two terrorist attacks in Buenos Aires in 1992 and 1994.

Argentina's new president, Fernando de la Rua met with an Iranian official and heard Teheran's intentions to improve relations.