DEPARTMENT OF STATE
AIRGRAM
TO: DEPARTMENT OF STATE
E.D.11652: XGDS-4
TAGS: PINS, PGOV, IR
FROM: AMERICAN EMBASSY TEHRANDATE:AUGUST 1, 1978
SUBJECT: UNCERTAIN POLITICAL MOOD: RELIGIOUS DEVELOPMENTS, TOUGHER ROYAL LINE ON DEMONSTRATORS
REF:
SUMMARY: Source who has been helping broker court contacts with religious groups notes official disappointment with redevelopments, especially Ayatollah Shariatmadari's refusal to publicly break ranks with Ayatollah Khomeini. Shah's mood and health concern some court officials. According to this source Shah has directed much tougher line against demonstrators in wake of July 26-29 rioting. Corruption could become major political issue. Communist and Khomeini forces are staying in opposition background for moment. GOI seen as still in disarray. Source represents pessimistic view current in several circles but probably overstates negative aspects of present situation quarters as well, however, and Iranian political mood seems on roller coaster for the moment. END SUMMARY.
Hedayat Eslaminia, who has been discussing the religious situation with Embassy Political Officer Stem[Missing Text] in somewhat low spirits. the religious situation has "come apart". Eslaminia learned from General Fardoust and SAVAK Chief Moghaddam that the Shah was most distressed that Ayatollah Shariatmadari did not publicly oppose Ayatollah Khomeini's call for a subdued, "politicized" celebration of 12th Imam's birthday July 21. Eslaminia says Shariatmadari and his supporters have increased their dislike for Khomeini until it borders on hate because of pro-Khomeini grou;ps are blackmailing Shariatmadari supporters by threatening to shut down or burn their shops in the Basaar.
SECRET/LIMDIS
