(S) FOLLOW-UP INFORMATION ON POSSIBLE ARMS

S E C R E T STATE 090206 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: OADR TAGS: PARM PREL ETTC MASS SY IR RU SUBJECT: (S) FOLLOW-UP INFORMATION ON POSSIBLE ARMS TRANSFER REF: A. MOSCOW 2209 ¶B. STATE 88978 ¶C. HARDIMAN-WOLF EMAILS Classified By: ISN/CATR Acting Director BBachman, Reason 1.4 (b),(c) and (d) ¶1. (U) This is a formal follow-up to discussions held in REFTEL C. -------------- BACKGROUND -------------- ¶2. (S) We have recently received additional information regarding flights between Syria and Iran via Moscow. Per REFTEL B, we informed Moscow that Iran and Lebanese Hizballah were coordinating flights between Iran and Syria to transport military equipment. Per REFTEL A, the Russian government promised to work to stop these flights from taking place. Moscow asked for additional information that Washington might have on these flights. Washington just received information on the possible airlines that might be used, which we have received from diplomatic sources. -------------- OBJECTIVES -------------- ¶3. (S) Washington understands that Post has already contacted appropriate host government officials to provide them with additional information on the potential flights between Syria and Iran, via Moscow using three Syrian flights. The flights are expected to take place this week. Weapons may be going both ways (e.g. to and from Iran) on these flights. (N.B. - this is a slightly amended point, per REFTEL C; it deletes the reference to the specific start date of the flight.) Post may draw upon the following talking points as appropriate in following-up with host government officials: BEGIN TALKING POINTS SECRET/REL RUSSIA --As we recently discussed with you, we have received information that Iran, in cooperation with Lebanese Hizballah, was preparing to ship military equipment between Syria and Iran via Moscow. --We have obtained additional information that we would like to share with you to assist in your efforts to prevent these flights. --It is possible that the shipments will be carried out by the Syrian air force or civilian airlines such as Saha Airlines and possibly one other airline. --We look forward to continued cooperation with you on these issues and learning the results of your efforts to prevent these flights. END TALKING POINTS ¶4. (S) Washington looks forward to receiving the response from the GOR on any actions it may have taken with regarding to preventing these flights. ¶5. (U) Post's assistance is greatly appreciated. ISN/CATR POC is Margaret Mitchell (mitchellmt2@state.sgov.gov). CLINTON