Israel embassy car blast probe points to Iran

New Delhi: The Delhi Police's investigation into the attack on Israel diplomat's car in February, 2012, points to a clear Iranian state hand. CNN-IBN has accessed the police's letter of rogatory that confirms that the attack was part of a larger conspiracy that included a failed attempt in Georgia and twin terror attacks in Bangkok.

The police has written to the Malaysian authorities to allow them to question a suspect who was arrested in connection with the attack. The suspect Masoud's call details reveal that he was in touch with Houshang Afsar Irani, the main suspect who carried out the blast.

Sayid Mohd Kazmi has been arrested by the Delhi Police for helping Houshang in doing the recce of these areas and providing logistical help.

CNN-IBN has accessed the police's letter of rogatory that confirms that the attack was part of a larger conspiracy.

The police say they have recovered the Hero Honda Passion bike used on February. The letter of rogatory also confirms that Kazmi held a meeting with members of Iran's Revolutionary Guard in January 2011.

The police is likely to file a chargesheet soon.

Meanwhile, Israel has called Iran the number one exporter of state-sponsored terrorism. "We have no doubt that the government of Iran is responsible for the terrorist attack against an Israeli diplomat and three Indians in the heart of New Delhi. Iran is the number one exporter of state-sponsored terrorism in the world," a statement from the Israel embassy said.

These developments are expected to have diplomatic consequences when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh visits Iran next month. Sources say New Delhi will seek Tehran's co-operation against the suspects, but is unlikely to accuse Iran publicly, at least not before the NAM summit.

India will instead seek assurances against future acts of terror but do so quietly. The US and Israel could use this probe to make a case for military action against Iran, which is something that India does not favour.

The MEA sources say, "This is an ongoing investigation. It will be premature and speculative to discuss about a possible Iranian State role. In the past, India has asked Iran to co-operate in this investigation."

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