1- The Middle East is in a critical situation, what is your general analysis about the recent developments in this area?
I see the ISIS conquest of Mosul as one of the most important developments in recent history. It potentially marks the end of the Sykes-Picot era that began almost a century ago.
2- What do you think is the main reason for the rapid progress of the "Islamic State of Iraq and Syria" in Iraq and Syria?
Many factors help explain this shocking development: Syrian and Iraqi government repression of their Sunni populations; the brilliant leadership of ISIS; Turkish and Qatari support; and the illegitimacy of the Iraqi state created by the United States and its allies. Beyond these specifics, the Sunni Arabs, Shia Arabs and Kurds of Iraq all feel greater allegiance to each of their own communities than to the central government, which has struggled with weak allegiances since its creation in the aftermath of World War I
3- How can the widespread presence of the "Islamic State of Iraq and Syria" in Syria and Iraq affect the activities of other terrorist groups in the region?
ISIS is no longer a terrorist group but a virtual state. Its example will inspire other groups also to conquer territory; and its proclamation of a caliphate will inspire others to do the same.
4- Bearing in mind the limited relations between Iran and the USA over the past thirty years, can the continuation of nuclear talk cause the interaction between the countries for resolve the crisis in the region, especially in Syria and Iraq?
The U.S. and Iranian governments do have more in common than since 1978. I doubt, however, that this will lead to a breakthrough.
5- The "Islamic State of Iraq and Syria" (ISIS) is a big threat for the region, particularly for Iran as a country with a majority Shiite population, how can Iran resolve this crisis? Can this common danger create close ties between Iran and the Persian Gulf countries, especially Saudi Arabia?
The Iranian government needs to take ISIS very seriously, as it challenges its influence in Syria and Iraq. Ultimately, ISIS could become active among Sunnis in Iran too. Yes, common opposition to ISIS does bring Tehran and Riyadh closer.
6- Does America have any plans to confront the "Islamic state of Iraq and Syria" in Iraq?
Not that I know of.
7- Why does Iran consider Daesh as an American plot in Iraq?
Because the Iranian regime nearly always thinks in conspiratorial terms. I wrote a chapter on this in my 1996 book, The Hidden Hand.
8- Can Daesh be considered as a threat to America's economy?
In a small way, yes.
9- How can Iran interfere in Iraq in a way that it would not be accused of interfering in the sovereignty of another country?
I see the government in Baghdad as very much under the influence of Tehran; and the ISIS threat will only increase that influence.
10- Considering Iran's influence on Iraq, how can Tehran resolve the problems between political groups in this country?
The smartest move Tehran can make is to get the Iraqi political leadership to offer a more attractive arrangement to the country's Sunnis.
11- How do you see the political future of Iraq?
Three states: Shiite Arab, Shiite Arab, Sunni Kurd.
12- Can Nouri al-Maliki resignation wind up the political tensions in this country?
It would help but I am not confident it would suffice.
