Supporters of Iranian dissident group rally across from White House, seek US protection

Associated Press
September 8, 2008

WASHINGTON (AP) - Supporters of an Iranian dissident group based in Iraq held a rally outside the White House.

Backers of the People's Mujahedeen Organization of Iran, or Mujahedeen Khalq, are asking for U.S. protection of the dissidents in Iraq. They claim the members face persecution if sent back to Iran.

Activists say about 3,500 members remain at Camp Ashraf, their base northeast of Baghdad which is managed by U.S.-led multinational forces.

Mahie Shaikh (Shayk) of Dallas cried as she spoke about her concern for her parents and relatives who live at the camp. She said Iranian authorities executed 2 of her uncles, and she worries about what would happen if her family is returned to Iran.

The Khalq allied with Saddam Hussein during the bitter 1980s war between Iran and Iraq. It has opposed Iran's Islamic republic and has operated out of Iraq.

U.S.-led troops disarmed the group after the U.S. 2003 invasion. The U.S. lists the group as a terrorist organization.