(Washington Post) Daniel Williams - Iran has embarked on a charm offensive in the Arab world aimed at expanding economic and political ties and circumventing efforts by the U.S. and its allies to isolate Iran over its nuclear program. Iran also moved to shore up its longtime alliance with Syria. During a recent meeting with Iranian officials in Damascus, Syrian Prime Minister Naji al-Otri publicly endorsed Iran's assertion of the right to develop nuclear technology. The activity coincides with Iran's stated support for Hamas. Ahmadinejad has offered to fill gaps in the PA budget created by a withdrawal of international aid as Hamas takes over.
2006-03-20 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive