U.S., European security officials discount Iran-Al Qaeda links

Reuters
February 23, 2012

U.S. and European officials are downplaying allegations that Iran and al Qaeda have recently stepped up cooperation in preparation for possible attacks on U.S. and other Western targets.

The officials, who are familiar with security issues, and private experts, discounted recent news reports about a possible new deal between Iran and what remains of al Qaeda’s core leadership, now headed by Ayman al Zawahiri, long-time deputy to the late Osama bin Laden.

“This should not be overblown,” said one U.S. official, who asked for anonymity when discussing a sensitive subject.