CURRENT INTELLIGENCE MEMORANDUM SUBJECT: Security Situation in Iran
early June rioting in Tehran and other cities was sparked by religious reactionary leaders who strongly oppose the Shah's reformland reform and the emancipation of women. Financial backing probably was obtained from former large landowners and possibly from Egyptian sources.
Iranian security forces anticipated trouble during the Moharram period of religious4 June). Tbe riots vers set off by theof Ayatollah Khomeini, one of Iran's leading religious leaders and chief agitator against the The demonstrations were well organised with the apparent intention ofompleteof public order. The agitatorsarge number of slum elements from South Tehran and bazaar idlers, and anticipated support from student mobs.
The city police,aximum specialized riot capability, were quickly overwhelmed by the thousands of rioters. Troops were soon committed and at tbe zenith of the rioting numberedhey performed well and showed no hesitancy inon tbe mobs when necessary.
Martial Lav is being rigidly enforced ln Tehran and tho key agitators have been srrested. The government should hsve ample mllltsry forces ln and near tbe msjor cities to maintain general order. The security forces have also been alerted to theof trouble In the provinces. The danger of an assassination attempt sgsinst the Shah and others has Increased, however.
olu"OB toproblem of tribalhas been brought closer by the assassination
JGfdertho The forces of the remaining rebel leaders are believed few and scattering, and most tribal chiefs now haveto military authorities.
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