Iran silent as its only ally sets talks with Israel
Special to World Tribune.com
MIDDLE EAST NEWSLINE
Tuesday, December 14, 1999
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.