We
are witnessing the emergence of a new campaign against Iran that includes “information”
about that country’s growing presence in West Africa, the Sahel and Sudan. It
basically says that, following data available to certain security agencies –
not named –, Iran is engaged in building a network of terrorist cells in those
regions of Africa. Those cells would later be activated against Western
interests in the countries concerned.
I
have known these corners of Africa for decades. And I have several friends in
positions of authority in the area, including in matters of internal security.
There is indeed a serious increase of radical activities and armed groups over
there. But their link with Iran seems very unlikely. Certainly, very difficult
to prove. Those radicals are inspired by Sunni fundamentalism, whilst Iran is a
Shiite proponent of Islam.
What
I have noticed, and my friends have confirmed, is that the new radicalism in
that belt of Africa is mainly supported by groups and mosques based in Saudi Arabia,
the Gulf States, especially in Qatar, as well as in Pakistan. In addition,
there is also some influence coming from Egypt.
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