Iran is escalating its presence in Brazil, particularly through connections with Al-Mustafa University and local institutes, raising concerns about Hezbollah’s influence. Diplomatic ties have strengthened, highlighted by high-profile meetings and unpublicized visits, while the U.S. offers rewards for information on Hezbollah operations in Brazil.
Iran’s activities in Brazil are seeing a notable surge, particularly with ties strengthening between the two nations. A recent visit by Ali Abbasi, director of Al-Mustafa University, a sanctioned Iranian institution, has raised eyebrows. The university is linked to the recruitment of Shiite militias and has been under scrutiny by both the U.S. and Canada due to its ties with terrorism. This development is concerning, especially for those monitoring Hezbollah’s influence in South America.
Abbasi’s visit also aligns with Iran’s increasing diplomatic footprint in Brazil. The partnership with Salam Institute allows for the dissemination of pro-Iran courses across various regions in Brazil. Additionally, the Islamic Orient Cultural Institute, led by Mohsen Rabbani—who has a notorious history linked to attacks in Argentina—has maintained connections with Al-Mustafa. This broad academic networking appears to bolster Hezbollah efforts in the country.
Meanwhile, a significant meeting occurred recently in Moscow involving Celso Amorim, Brazil’s foreign policy advisor, and Ali Akbar Ahmadian from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. The agenda remains largely undisclosed, yet it underscores the currency of Brazilian-Iranian relations, which have taken on new intensity.
The Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira is also noted for attending a tribute at the Iranian embassy for the late Ebrahim Raisi, Iran’s former president. This visit, along with the arrival of an Iranian government Airbus A340 in Brasilia without clear explanation, raises more questions about the nature of these growing ties.
Adding to the unease is a recent U.S. embassy announcement, which is offering a $10 million reward for information on Hezbollah’s financial activities in the Triple Frontier area—a region notorious for its illicit operations spanning Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. This signals serious concern regarding terrorist funding operations within Brazil.
In summary, with Iran’s rising influence and Hezbollah’s deeper roots in Brazilian universities and diplomatic channels, regional security faces profound challenges. Both nations continue to foster connections, which can escalate illicit activities and terrorism in Latin America.
Iran’s influence in Brazil has been augmented through its educational and diplomatic engagements, notably with Al-Mustafa University and collaboration with local institutes. Escalating links, especially with organizations linked to Hezbollah, pose significant threats, raising alarms about regional security and terrorist financing in sensitive areas like the Triple Frontier. The U.S. response, offering a substantial reward for information about Hezbollah’s finances, highlights the urgency of addressing these concerns.
Original Source: voz.us
