Opinion: a troubling alliance – Bolivia’s role in Iran’s strategy

(Opinion) Bolivia has often been a surprising headline-maker, from multi-million dollar international drug trafficking and corruption cases to irregular economic assertions.

Now, it’s the spotlight of a significant security issue through a freshly inked agreement with Iran involving the purchase of Iranian drones by Bolivia.

This alliance between Bolivia and Iran’s regime has raised international eyebrows and rings alarm bells over the potential implications.

The agreement, mutedly reported by Bolivian media, involves Defense Ministers Edmundo Novillo of Bolivia and Mohammad Reza Ashtiani of Iran.

The pact outlines provision for equipment to aid the fight against drug trafficking and bolster border security.

The Iranian minister’s remarks about South America’s special place in Iran’s defense policy due to its sensitive location raise questions about underlying intentions.

Argentina, no stranger to conflict with Iran over unresolved issues from the 1994 terrorist attack on AMIA Jewish Mutual, has taken note.

Argentine Foreign Minister Santiago Cafiero has sought clarity on the agreement’s scope from his Bolivian counterpart Rogelio Mayta, indicating international concern about these developments.

But this is not the first time Iran has wielded influence in Bolivia.

The Movement Towards Socialism (MAS), under Evo Morales, approved a “Framework Agreement” in 2008 that set the tone for cooperation mainly in the military sector.

Iran’s involvement, which included significant donations to amplify Bolivia’s pro-government messaging, suggests a long-term strategic plan.

The frequent official visits between the two countries, including three by former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, highlight the growing rapport.

These interactions have seen extensive agreements in defense, energy, industry, culture, science, technology, et al., further strengthening ties.

Jorge Valda, a recognized Bolivian human rights defense lawyer, warns that the agreements between the current regimes pose potential threats to internal and international security, giving Iran the means to interfere in Bolivian communication systems.

Similarly, independent journalist Humberto Vacaflor Ganam reports on the undisclosed agreement to deliver Iranian drones to Bolivia, an issue the Plurinational Legislative Assembly has not addressed.

The alliance between Bolivia and Iran should not be viewed in isolation.

It’s part of a wider strategy where Iran, in conjunction with Havana, Caracas, Managua, Moscow, and Beijing, is slowly, but surely, expanding its global influence.