Clark, defying ban, makes 'reconciliation' trip to Iran

Former US Attorney General Ramsey Clark arrived here Monday with nine other Americans in defiance of a White House ban on travel to Iran, saying his delegation sought "to achieve a reconciliation with the Iranian people." Mr. Clark and the nine prominent scholars and clergymen joining him came to participate in the "international conference on US interventions in Iran," called by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. The conference is expected to set the mood for the Islamic parliament's decision on the 53 American hostages.

"Our reason for coming here is our belief that dialogue between all peoples is essential for understanding," Mr. Clark said.

The 10 Americans each face up to 10 years in jail and fines of $50,000 for defying the US ban on travel to Iran.