Israel's Defense Ministry closes its "Iranian Department"

PanARMENIAN.Net - Israel's Defense Ministry has decided to close its subdivision for Iranian affairs. The decision was made within the frames of budgetary curtailment program. The department's annual budget comprised USD 1 million.



An "old-generation agency" headed by Uri Loubran and a confirmed opponent of military operations against Iran, the "Iranian" department maintained ties with Iranian diaspora representatives and mass media, and was in charge of broadcasting a Persian language program ("Voice of Israel") for Iran and South Lebanon.



There are several Foreign and Defense Ministry subdivisions tackling Iranian problem in Israel. Information on nuclear facilities is collected by military and foreign intelligence services. Foreign Ministry conducts explanatory activities and maintains international contacts. And Loubaran's subdivision occupied its own place within the hierarchy.



For several years, Loubran's assistant was former "Mosada" agent Iskhak Barziley who participated in secret operations in Europe and later - in Iran. After retirement, he continued to work for Iranian department, Haaretz reports.