Signs of covert ops noted in Iran

By Aussiegirl

Two articles today that may show the nascent signs of covert ops taking place in Iran. Signs of things to come? Interesting to keep an eye on.

AZERBAIJAN FEARS STANDOFF BETWEEN WASHINGTON AND TEHRAN - Eurasia Daily Monitor

Both Suleymani and Najjar referred to a non-aggression pact between the two states that excludes the use of either state's military bases by a third country in order to attack the other (see EDM, August 15, 2005).

Shortly after the visit, however, Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani alleged that the United States is using territory inside Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan territories for reconnaissance missions inside Iran.

Russia's Regnum news agency reported on Tuesday that Larijani had told the Egyptian Al Ahram newspaper, American "reconnaissance units are acting in Azerbaijan [and] their activity is aimed against the Islamic Republic of Iran" (Regnum, April 25). Larijani also threatened that if Azerbaijan opens its territory for a military attack against Iran, Tehran would retaliate by hitting the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline and other strategic energy installations in Azerbaijan (Zerkalo, April 26).

Asia Times

A former Iranian ambassador and Islamic Republic insider has provided intriguing details to Asia Times Online about US covert operations inside Iran aimed at destabilizing the country and toppling the regime - or preparing for an American attack.

"The Iranian government knows and is aware of such infiltration. It means that the Iranian government has identified them [the covert operatives] but for some reason does not want to show [this]," said the former diplomat on condition of anonymity.

Speaking in Tehran, the ex-Foreign Ministry official said the agents being used by the US "were originally Iranians and not Americans" possibly recruited in the United States or through US embassies in Dubai and Ankara. He also warned that such actions will engender "some reactions".