Most analysts view it more as a movement of various local groups with the common aim of imposing Islamic-based rule.

VOA: standard.2009.03.11

But most scholars - such as Roger Smith with the College of William and Mary - say the figure is higher.

VOA: standard.2010.03.18

"The challenge of Iran truly today, has been revealed more than ever with their most recent missile test which has a capability of striking to the West as far as southeastern Europe,Turkey, but to the East could strike our allies in Pakistan,"

VOA: standard.2009.05.20