Obama signs law against Iran's Latin America influence
Washington tries to stem Tehran's growing impact in region; orders series of diplomatic and political measures to that effect via 'Countering Iran in the Western Hemisphere Act'
President Barack Obama enacted a law to counter Iran's alleged influence in Latin America, through a new diplomatic and political strategy to be designed by the State Department.
The Countering Iran in the Western Hemisphere Act, passed by lawmakers earlier this year, calls for the State Department to develop a strategy within 180 days to "address Iran's growing hostile presence and activity" in the region.
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Although the strategy is confidential and only accessible to lawmakers, it must contain a public summary.
The text also calls on the Department of Homeland Security to bolster surveillance at US borders with Canada and Mexico to "prevent operatives from Iran, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps IRGC, its Quds Force, Hezbollah or any other terrorist organization from entering the Untied States."
Iranian President Ahmadinejad with Venezuelan President Chavez (Archives: Reuters)
And within Latin American countries, the text provides for a multiagency action plan to provide security in those countries, along with a "counterterrorism and counter-radicalization plan" to isolate Iran and its allies.
Washington has repeatedly stated it is closely monitoring Tehran's activities in Latin America, though senior State Department and intelligence officials have indicated there is no apparent indication of illicit activities by Iran.
Iran, placed under a series of international sanctions because of its suspect nuclear program, has opened six new embassies in the region since 2005 – bringing the total to 11 – and 17 cultural centers.
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has made regular visits to Latin America, though he only toured the region twice this year.
Tehran has particularly close ties with Bolivia, Ecuador and Venezuela, where it has strengthened its presence through investments.
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