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In a Nutshell
The Iran Syria Policy and
Operations Group (ISOG), headed by Elizabeth Cheney
before she took maternity leave, was set up in early
2006 to counter the looming threat of a
nuclear-armed Iran. The main stated goal of the
organization is to isolate and "contain" Iran in the
same way that the Soviet Union was contained during
the Cold War in hopes that Iranians will one day
change their own government. Critics claim the
organization is in fact endeavoring to change the
Iranian regime.
Among the actions proposed by the ISOG:
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Increasing the military capabilities of Arab
allies such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab
Emirates and Bahrain.
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Covert assistance to Iranian dissidents
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Building international outrage toward Iran by
publicizing its alleged role in a 1994 terrorist
attack in Argentina.
ISOG was modeled after the Iraq Policy and
Operations Group set up in 2004 to gather
information and coordinate US action in Iraq.
State Dept. Funds Allocated in 2006
to "reach out to the Iranian people and support
their calls for freedom.
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$10 million to support political dissidents,
labor union leaders and human rights activities.
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$50 million to broadcast to the Iranian people
by establishing a 24/7 broadcast in Farsi into
Iran and improve radio and satellite
transmissions.
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$15 to foster participation in the political
process and expand internet access as a tool for
civic organization. Also to help organize
Iranian labor unions and political
organizations.
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$5 million to help build bridges between the
people of both nations by expanding Iranian
student education and international visitors
programs.
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$5 million to support internet and other efforts
to reach the Iranian public by developing
independent Farsi television and radio.
Funds are expected to double in 2008 according to
the senior State Dept. official.
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