Iran, Syria Seek Upgrade of Strategic Ties
Monday, September 10, 2001 (12:00 am)
ICEJ NEWS – 09/10/2001
Iran and Syria are preparing to upgrade their strategic relations in face of the prospect of war with Israel.
According to Middle East Newsline [MENL], diplomatic sources say Iran and Syria are preparing high-level visits over the next few weeks. This would begin with a visit by Iranian Defense Minister Ali Shamkhani to Damascus. This would be followed by a visit to Teheran by Syrian Defense Minister Mustafa Tlas.
The sources said the two countries want to discuss increased military and defense coordination. Iran and Syria have joined in several weapons programs, particularly in the development of advanced Scud C missiles.
The heightened cooperation comes amid tension along the Israeli-Lebanese border. Israel has threatened to strike Syrian targets in Lebanon in retaliation for any Hizb'Allah strikes there.
Over the last three months, Syria has deployed four radar stations in Lebanon. Syria has also provided Iran with military bases in the Beka'a Valley and southern Lebanon.
Used with Permission from International Christian Embassy Jerusalem.
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