IRAN - Apr. 20 - US Worried About Challenge To Press.

The US says it was worried about a threat to the freedom of the press in Iran, where Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamen'i has denounced domestic journalists who favour reform. State Department spokesman Rubin says the Iranian press had played an important part in political developments and had contributed to a "lively political culture" in Iran. He adds: "Any time free press is challenged anywhere in the world or any statements are made that question that fundamental right of free expression that we believe in, we're worried". Ayatollah Khamen'i, in his 2nd major address in a week, lashes out on Apr. 20, at globalisation as a pretext for domination by the West. On April 14, he warned of the dangers of "American-style" reforms. Khamen'i said the looming threat of foreign domination, was compounded by the presence of "domestic hypocrites", particularly the pro-reform press. (Washington is seeking an end to 20 years of estrangement between the former allies, and Secretary of State Albright in March offered regret for past US policy. She also waived import bans on Iranian luxury goods. Iranian officials have promised a comprehensive response but so far the US initiative has done little more than exacerbate tensions between the conservative establishment and reformers grouped around Pres. Khatami.)