World: An Interview with Ghotbzadeh

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A. These details must be negotiated. What matters, in the final analysis, is a clear, honest discussion of these problems. The best guarantee we can have for U.S. noninterference in Iranian affairs in the future is a thorough discussion, description and dissemination of the U.S. role in Iran. We want real independence. If common sense should prevail in Washington, [it would be recognized that] an independent, popular, grass-roots regime in Iran is the best option left for the U.S.

Q. How do you assess the problem of Iran's diplomatic isolation?

A. It stems, on the one hand, from the blind radicalism of our youths. They are revolutionary idealists out to put everything right overnight. On the other hand, the main culprit is the Tudeh (Communist) Party, which, at the bidding of Moscow, drives the young generation to political sabotage. The Tudeh has more than 50 years of experience in serving the Soviet Union as a trusted fifth column. And it is doing an excellent job today.

The Soviets are going to inordinate lengths to make sure Iran sinks deeper and deeper into international isolation. We have hostile governments on our common borders with Iraq and Afghanistan. The Kremlin, through its agents' propaganda, has also gone all out to create trouble between us and Pakistan, Turkey and the Persian Gulf nations. It wants us cornered and helpless so that, in desperation, we will turn north. Their policy is clear: to bludgeon Iran to its knees and then impose on it whatever conditions they want.

The Soviets engage in subversion, espionage and propaganda against Iranian government interests. But they never insult the Imam [Ayatullah Ruhollah Khomeini]. As I have often mentioned, the Soviets are no less satanic than the Americans. But they know how to avoid hurting the people's sensibilities.

Q. Will the clerical Islamic Republic Party, which controls the Majlis, moderate its policies when faced with the realities of power?

A. It must. Otherwise it won't be able to govern. The problem is that it has gone so far out on a limb in its quest for radical gestures that it will have difficulty regaining its poise. I am ready to help and I have proved it. Other politicians, I hope, will follow suit and give up the prevalent practice of scoring cheap points by blind, strident radicalism.

Q. What do you think of Mr. Raja'i, the new Prime Minister?

A. He is a good Muslim and devoted revolutionary. But he is incapable of running the country and ill informed about domestic and foreign affairs. His term as Minister of Education does not inspire confidence.

Q. How do you rate the chances of the new government's success?

A. If the hostage problem is solved, it will have some slight chance of success. Otherwise it won't get anywhere.