Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=4/24/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=PENTAGON / RUMSFELD /I RAN (S ONLY)

NUMBER=2-302543

BYLINE=ALEX BELIDA

DATELINE=PENTAGON

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld says he believes most Iraqis do not want Iranian influence in their country's internal affairs and favor a representative, non-dictatorial government. V-O-A Correspondent Alex Belida reports from the Pentagon.

TEXT: Mr. Rumsfeld says neighboring countries should not try to influence events in Iraq as it emerges from years of dictatorial rule.

Speaking in an interview with the Associated Press, the U-S Defense Secretary says that applies to Iran. And he makes clear the United States will not permit formation of an Iranian-style theocracy in Iraq.

/// RUMSFELD ACTUALITY ///

If you're suggesting, how would we feel about an Iranian-type government with a few clerics running everything in the country, the answer is: That isn't going to happen.

///END ACTUALITY///

Iran has rejected U-S suggestions that Tehran is interfering in Iraq's transition to a new government.

But U-S officials say Iran has influenced recent Iraqi protests against the American military presence in the country. (Signed)

NEB/BEL/MAR/RH