The Teheran regime has been expanding intelligence operations through
such proxies as Hamas, Hizbullah and Venezuela. The report, titled "Annual Threat
Assessment," said Iranian intelligence has sought to sabotage U.S. interests
throughout the Middle East and surrounding regions.
"Iran continues to pursue intelligence outreach efforts to reduce the
country's isolation and counter U.S. interests," the report, submitted to
Congress in February, said.
The report said Iran would extend its influence throughout the Middle
East despite Western sanctions. The intelligence community envisioned that
Iran would overcome any gasoline embargo by importing fuel from China and
Venezuela.
"In the Levant, Teheran is focused on building influence in Syria and
Lebanon and expanding the capability of key allies," the report said.
"Teheran continues to support groups such as Hizbullah, Hamas, and the
Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which it views as integral to its efforts to
challenge Israeli and Western influence in the Middle East."