.D1474,0 Cp:t, -D61-tv TO: Doug Brown FROM: Mit Spears, Jim Ci co DATE: December 4, 1979 RE: Effect of Iranian Situation on Texas Facts: Attached please find copies of wire reports concerning threats Iranian students by the "United Americans" and Governor Lamm's r Please note that specific reference is made to Texas in the "Uri' report. Analysis: 1. We cannot afford to lightly dismiss these reports in that: made against ction thereto. ed Americans" a. Regardless of whether the threat is real, Iranian stud ts will most probably seek some means of defending themselves and may w I overreact; h. Some lunatic, acting on his own, may well think tha this is a good idea and attempt to kidnap a student. c. The fact that the Shah is in Texas and that de onstrations are planned exacerbates the problem. 2. An additional factor is the possibility that, at any oment, serious harm might come to the hostages in Iran. This could provo e an emotional and violent response against Iranians in this country for whic there would be little time to prepare. Recommendation: 1. The Governor take measures to insure the sa ty of Iranians in Texas. Initially, these efforts should be directed towards pr tecting Iranian students. Imme- diate steps should include: a. Instructions to the DPS to assist .1 d cooperate with the FBI in any investigation involving threats of har against Iranians residing in Texas; b. Issuance of a public statement makin the following points: * reiterate that violent acts will no be tolerated; * state that DPS has been instruct d to assist and cooperate with the FBI in any investigation of threats aga St Iranians; and * state that DPS has also bee specifically instructed to coordinate any steps necessary to ensure the 'protection of Iranians in Texas. c. Further instruct the DPS, wit .yt publicity, topiLeyare a continan for the protection of Iranians Texas in the more serious ever..rn comin• t - is -rica h. . -s in Tehran. This should be done quickly but quiet y, and should involve rre cooperation of affected colleges and uni- ersities. Preparation of a contingency statement by the Governor to be immediately released upon confirmed reports of any tragedy involving the hostages in Tehran. The statement should refer to the anger and frustration caused by the tragedy, yet call for calm and order and a refraining from any violenc against Iranian residents. iiibaDA1 edr G444A-L) WPC tri.d Pret Pei) en.