Is there a link between Iran and Al-Qaeda? The hawks in the government would like to think that there is but this author finds that it would be very difficult for the Iranians to get along with Al-Qaeda because of the religious differences between the two. The Iranians are comprised almost exclusively of Shiite Muslims whereas the Al-Qaeda network, including Osama Bin Laden, is almost exclusively Sunni Muslim. There is quite a clash over the beliefs of both sects of Islam so it would likely make it difficult for the two to get along. Then again, who knows, both Iran and Al-Qaeda could be working together to help undermine western influences in that part of the world.
The overall picture on Iran makes it appear as if they are guilty of many things including hiding the fact that they have a very progressive and potentially dangerous nuclear weapons program. They are also, almost assuredly hiding the fact that they are looking to sponsor some sort of Islamic Fundamentalist government in Iraq and this will become increasingly evident as the U.S. makes an attempt to install a proper government in that country. The Iran-Al-Qaeda link is somewhat weak and unreliable right now but if clear and convincing proof can be given that it does exist it might be a good enough cause to impose stiffer sanctions or even light military action. This could also be the case if it is found that Iran is using its nuclear power program to create nuclear weapons. Then a strike on all of its nuclear facilities would be warranted and perhaps desired by many. This may actually happen sooner than expected.
