Amidst the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Gaza, Iran has emerged as a vocal supporter of Palestinians, aligning with its staunch anti-Israel foreign policy. Iran’s opposition to Israel is deeply rooted in the history of their relationship, which has undergone significant transformations over the years. As tensions escalate and the conflict expands beyond Gaza, it is crucial to understand the historical context of Iran-Israel relations.
Under the Pahlavi dynasty, which ruled Iran until the 1979 revolution, Iran and Israel enjoyed relatively friendly ties. In fact, Iran was the second Muslim-majority country to recognize Israel after its establishment in 1948. However, the revolution drastically changed Iran’s stance. Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the leader of the revolution, championed Islam and positioned Israel as the “Little Satan” to the United States’ “Great Satan.” Tehran cut off all ties with Israel, transformed the Israeli embassy into the Palestinian embassy, and declared Quds Day to rally support for Palestinians.
The overthrow of the Shah and the establishment of the Islamic Republic marked a turning point in Iran-Israel relations. The Shah’s alliance with Israel was driven by the need for alliances, security, and trade. However, the new Islamic Republic sought to champion the Palestinian cause, transforming it into an Islamic issue to overcome divisions within the Muslim world. Iran’s support for armed groups across the region, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Palestine, further solidified its opposition to Israel.
The enmity between Iran and Israel has not been limited to ideological differences. Both countries have been accused of launching attacks on each other’s interests, leading to a “shadow war” characterized by covert operations and sabotage. Israel, backed by its Western allies, has targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, while Iran has retaliated with cyberattacks and alleged drone strikes on Israeli-owned oil tankers.
While some Arab states have chosen to normalize relations with Israel, Iran remains steadfast in its opposition. The current establishment in Iran sees any rapprochement with Israel as out of the question, citing their rivalry for dominance and power in the region. With no signs of a shift in their positions, the conflict between Iran and Israel is likely to persist.
As the Israeli bombardment of Gaza continues and the war’s impact spreads beyond its borders, it is essential to closely monitor the evolving dynamics between Iran and Israel. The history of their relationship provides valuable insights into the motivations and actions of both nations. The repercussions of their ongoing conflict are not limited to the Middle East but have global implications for peace and stability.
