john mage
<http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2004-12/20/content_2360247.htm> Iranian supreme leader blames US and Israeli agents for Iraqi blasts
TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (Xinhuanet) -- Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said Monday that the US and Israeli agents were behind the weekend bombings in the Iraqi holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, the official IRNA news agency reported.
"Doubtless, the Israeli and American spying services are behind these events and this is a plot aimed at keeping the Iraqi people occupied so that they miss the chance to participate in the elections," Khamenei was quoted as saying during a meeting with ranking Iranian officials.
"Events like yesterday's explosions in Najaf and Karbala must turn Muslims' attention to bigger plots," Khamenei said, adding that the US' main aim was to "stoke up differences among Shiites and Sunnis".
"Statements made by certain lackeys of the colonial powers in Iraq in recent days are in line with efforts to create schisms among Shiites and Sunnis, but the vigilance of Muslims and the Iraqi people will thwart them," Khamenei added.
Khamenei stressed that the US and Britain did not want genuine elections to be held in Iraq, despite their posture and slogans.
"They are trying to bring their own agents to power by holding asuperficial election; thus, the Iraqi people are required to act with utmost vigilance," Khamenei said.
Khamenei also denounced US plan for a "Greater Middle East", saying the Americans wanted to control natural resource s of the region, including its vast oil reserves.
On Sunday, car bombers struck Najaf and Karbala, killing at least 66 people.
The Iraqi elections is scheduled on Jan. 30, but the turbulent situation raised doubts about whether the elections would be successfully held at the due time. Enditem