NCJ Number
177887
Journal
Studies in Conflict and Terrorism Volume: 22 Issue: 2 Dated: April-June 1999 Pages: 141-152
Date Published
1999
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article highlights the differences between the American and European approaches to Iran as a state believed to be sponsoring terrorism in other countries.
Abstract
Iran's clerical regime has been accused of assassinating its dissidents residing in Europe, attacking American targets, and intimidating pro-Western regimes in the Islamic world; Tehran categorically denies these accusations. For two decades, U.S. administrations have viewed Iran as a "rogue state." Accordingly, shortly after the seizure of the American embassy in Tehran, diplomatic relations between the two countries were severed, and since 1984 Iran has been on the State Department's list of states that are sponsoring terrorism. Based on this assessment of Iran's policies, Iran has been under various U.S. economic sanctions of increasing scope and intensity. This has not stopped American oil companies from trading with Iran, however. European government officials have criticized the United States for hypocrisy by trading with Iran while at the same time condemning European countries for similar activities. Overall, the U.S. economic sanctions are aimed at preventing any investments in the Iranian economy. These investments, it is argued, would make more resources available for Tehran to use in the support of terrorism. This containment policy has not succeeded in changing Iranian policy. Like the United States, Europe understands Iran's geo-political and geo-economic significance, but unlike the United States, European governments believe that the dynamics of the domestic situation in Tehran make it vital for dialog to continue, so that any change in direction can be influenced. There are signs of change in Iran, as the regime is apparently becoming more pragmatic and less "revolutionary" under dogmatic Islamic doctrine. U.S. and European officials need to consult more with one another and increase their cooperation with Iran. This will promote the chances for moderation and peace in Iran and the rest of the world. 45 notes