The Problem with Iran
The often mysterious and never too open Iran, along with Syria, has now become the main focus for the United States following the invasion of Iraq. Iran has been named as one of three "axis of evil" by President George W. Bush along with Iraq, which is now under control and North Korea. Since the end of the U.S. invasion in Iraq, a few issues between the United States and Iran have become apparent and are rearing their ugly head, threatening peace and stability in the Middle East. The first issue that has caused some controversy between the U.S. and Iran is a deal made between the United States forces in Iraq and the People's Mujahideen, a recognized terrorist organization. The deal allowed the Mujahideen to keep their weapons and bases in Iraq much to the dismay of Iran. The People's Mujahideen is group that opposes the current regime in Iran and bases attacks on that country from Iraq. The second issue at hand is Iran's current nuclear weapons capability. What is Iran up to and how serious is their nuclear threat?
The People's Mujahideen is, as stated, a recognized terrorist organization. The group was supported by Saddam Hussein who allowed them to operate bases inside Iraq as well as attack Iranian forces, along the border, from those bases. The U.S. has taken a different stance in regards to it's thinking when it comes to terrorism in dealing with the People's Mujahideen. This has left many people, especially Iran, wondering about the intentions of the United States and why they would leave a known terrorist group free to arm itself and operate in Iraq. The deal is also a surprise because it was the People's Mujahideen who responsible for the taking over of the American Embassy in Tehran in 1979.
It is difficult to imagine why the United States has agreed to let this organization remain armed and stay in Iraq. Perhaps it has something to do with the increasing tension between the United States and Iran. The United States might find the People's Mujahideen useful in either undermining the Iranian government or, if hostilities break out between Iran and the U.S. the terrorist group might be able to help with supporting attacks or provide reconnaissance during an invasion. Whatever the reason, it seems a bit unorthodox that the United States would allow this terrorist group to remain armed and active. This action has further strained already loosening relations between the U.S. and Iran as the Iranian government has denounced the action. This issue will be a hot one and will be well worth following in the weeks to come.
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