World Threats

Looks like the Mujahideen-e-Khalq’s designation as a terrorist group by the State Department is gaining steam as a political issue. Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, 2008 presidential candidate, and former Ambassador to the U.N. and possible 2012 presidential candidate John Bolton called for their de-listing at a rally by Iranians to protest Ahmadinejad at the U.N.

Giuliani said this:

“It is time here in America to right the wrong that has been done to you and your cause out of the misguided notion that the violent and tyrannical regime of Iran could be mollified.  It is about time that we change the listing of the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) on the terror list. I have studied terrorism for over 35 years.  I have investigated terrorism and I have seen first hand, in my city the devastation that terrorism can bring about. This is not a terrorist organization. This is an organization dedicated to achieving freedom and dignity for its people. It is time for the rest of our Congress to join 83 members, Democrats and Republicans who have supported House Resolution 1431, which calls for the lifting of this unjust, unfair and inaccurate designation.  It has been lifted by the British government. It has been lifted by the European Union. It should be lifted by the US Congress, and President Obama should support it as a defender of freedom.”

Bolton agreed, saying:

“The evidence I think is overwhelming that during the Clinton administration the MEK was put on the terrorist list because it was thought to be a way to open dialogue between the United States and Iran. That is an illegitimate basis to make a decision about any organization.”

This is an issue that proponents of regime change in Iran are divided on. To read my article summarizing the arguments of both sides, click here.