Military Intelligence chief says Islamic Republic exploiting Mideast unrest to create foothold in region, hopes to influence Egypt elections
Military Intelligence chief Major-General Aviv Kochavi discussed the Iranian influence in Middle Eastern countries that have experienced unrest or an upheaval on Tuesday.
Speaking before the Knesset's Defense and Foreign Affairs Committee he said: "Iran is using unrest in the Middle East to deepen its infiltration in countries such as Syrian, Lebanon, Egypt, Sudan, Yemen, Gaza and Iraq."
He added that Tehran is trying to influence the outcomes of Egypt's elections by tightening relations with the Muslim Brotherhood.
Kochavi noted that Iran played a direct role in events on Israel's border. "Iran acted directly in Lebanon in organizing Nakba Day and Naksa Day. It is working to make sure these acts of protest will continue."
The MI chief said that Iran and Hezbollah were supporting Syria's crackdown of protests by providing the regime in Damascus with crowd dispersal means and technical assistance.
"Iran and Hezbollah's motivation to assist (Syria) stems from its profound fear of the repercussions and mainly of losing the partnership with Syria and possible leakage (into the Islamic Republic)."
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