Is 'Treacherous Alliance' by Trita Parsi about Secret Alliance between Iran and Israel even during Khomeini's era?

"Treacherous Alliance" by Trita Parsi: A Look at the Secret Relationship Between Iran and Israel, Even During Khomeini's Era

Introduction

"Treacherous Alliance: The Secret Dealings of Israel, Iran, and the United States" by Trita Parsi is a groundbreaking book that delves into the complex and often paradoxical relationship between Iran and Israel, including their covert interactions during the Khomeini era. This period is particularly fascinating because, despite the ideological divide between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Jewish state, both countries found themselves cooperating behind the scenes. Parsi's book challenges the common perception that Iran and Israel have always been bitter enemies and exposes the nuanced, pragmatic, and sometimes contradictory nature of their relationship.

Iran-Israel Relations Before the Islamic Revolution

To understand the full scope of the relationship, it’s essential to start with the context of the pre-revolution era. Before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran, under the Pahlavi monarchy led by Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, enjoyed a close and cooperative relationship with Israel. Both nations were aligned against Arab nationalism, particularly the threat posed by Egypt under Gamal Abdel Nasser, who sought to unite the Arab world against perceived imperialist and Zionist threats. This shared threat made Iran and Israel natural allies, and they collaborated on several fronts, including intelligence sharing, military cooperation, and economic ties.

Parsi meticulously details this pre-revolution collaboration, laying the groundwork for understanding why the two countries might have continued their secretive dealings even after the rise of the Islamic Republic, despite the stark ideological shift that occurred when Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini took power.

The Ideological Shift and the Emergence of a Secret Alliance

The 1979 Islamic Revolution drastically altered Iran’s political landscape. The new regime, led by Ayatollah Khomeini, openly declared Israel an enemy, branding it as the "Little Satan" (with the United States being the "Great Satan"). The anti-Israel rhetoric became a cornerstone of the Islamic Republic's ideology, and Iran formally cut off all diplomatic ties with Israel. Publicly, the two countries appeared to be fierce adversaries.

However, as Parsi reveals in "Treacherous Alliance," this enmity was far more complicated. Beneath the surface, geopolitical and strategic interests continued to bind Iran and Israel together in ways that were at odds with their public posturing. One of the most striking examples of this clandestine cooperation occurred during the early years of the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988). Although the Islamic Republic of Iran officially denounced Israel, the two countries shared a common enemy: Iraq, led by Saddam Hussein.

Parsi explains how Israel, despite Khomeini’s anti-Zionist stance, decided to provide covert support to Iran during the war. Israel feared the rise of Saddam Hussein as a powerful and hostile actor in the region, and it viewed a weakened Iraq as being in its own strategic interest. Iran, on the other hand, needed weapons and military support to fend off Saddam’s aggression. This mutual interest led to secret arms deals, which became known as the "Iran-Contra Affair" or "Irangate" in the United States.

The Iran-Contra Affair and the Arms-for-Hostages Deal

One of the most significant revelations in "Treacherous Alliance" is the extent to which Israel acted as a middleman in the Iran-Contra affair, a scandal that rocked the Reagan administration in the 1980s. The essence of this covert operation was that the United States, despite its official policy of not negotiating with terrorists, sought to facilitate the sale of arms to Iran in exchange for the release of American hostages held by Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel played a pivotal role in these transactions by acting as an intermediary.

According to Parsi, Israel viewed this arrangement as a way to maintain some level of influence in Iran and to keep channels of communication open, even though the Islamic Republic had publicly denounced it. The arms sales included anti-tank missiles, ammunition, and spare parts for military equipment, demonstrating that Israel was willing to overlook ideological differences for strategic benefits.

What is particularly interesting is how Parsi delves into the decision-making processes on both sides. He shows that even within the ideologically driven regime of Ayatollah Khomeini, there were pragmatic elements that recognized the necessity of dealing with Israel when it served Iran's interests. This underscores one of Parsi’s central arguments: that national interests and realpolitik often take precedence over ideology, even in states that are ostensibly driven by rigid ideological principles.

The “Periphery Doctrine” and Israel’s Pragmatic Approach

Parsi explores Israel's “Periphery Doctrine,” a strategic concept that shaped its foreign policy in the region. The doctrine, developed in the 1950s by Israeli leaders like David Ben-Gurion, involved forming alliances with non-Arab states on the periphery of the Middle East, such as Iran, Turkey, and Ethiopia, to counterbalance hostile Arab neighbors. This doctrine continued to influence Israeli foreign policy even after Iran's Islamic Revolution, as Israel sought to prevent Iraq from emerging as the dominant power in the region.

By providing Iran with military assistance during the Iran-Iraq War, Israel hoped to keep both Iraq and Iran weakened, ensuring that neither would be capable of threatening Israel’s security. This pragmatic approach highlights how Israel, despite its democratic and ideological identity, was willing to engage with an avowedly hostile regime when it aligned with its strategic interests.

The Shift in the Post-War Era and the Rise of Hostility

While Parsi’s book demonstrates that there was significant cooperation between Iran and Israel during the 1980s, the relationship began to sour in the 1990s. After the Iran-Iraq War ended in 1988, Iran began to emerge as a regional power, and its revolutionary zeal intensified, particularly with regard to its support for anti-Israel groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon and Palestinian factions opposed to the peace process.

The collapse of the Soviet Union and the subsequent reordering of Middle Eastern alliances also contributed to the growing tensions. Iran no longer needed Israel’s support and began to pursue its regional ambitions more aggressively, positioning itself as the champion of the Palestinian cause and an opponent of Israel’s existence.

Parsi explains that this shift marked the beginning of a more overtly antagonistic phase in Iran-Israel relations, but he emphasizes that even during this period, elements of pragmatism occasionally emerged. For instance, Iran refrained from direct military confrontation with Israel and maintained some backchannel communications, particularly in relation to issues involving regional stability and shared threats.

Conclusions and the Significance of "Treacherous Alliance"

Trita Parsi’s "Treacherous Alliance" provides a nuanced and comprehensive account of the secret relationship between Iran and Israel, challenging the simplistic notion that these two countries have always been sworn enemies. Parsi demonstrates that, even during the era of Ayatollah Khomeini’s rule, geopolitical considerations often outweighed ideological rigidity, leading to instances of cooperation that might seem counterintuitive at first glance.

The book is not just a historical recounting but also a study of how national interests, power politics, and pragmatic considerations can drive states to form alliances that defy their public rhetoric. It underscores the complexity of Middle Eastern geopolitics, where alliances and enmities are rarely as clear-cut as they seem.

By shedding light on the secret dealings between Iran and Israel, "Treacherous Alliance" offers valuable insights into the nature of international relations, particularly in a region as volatile and unpredictable as the Middle East. It forces readers to reconsider the conventional narratives of enmity and alliance, revealing that even the most ideologically driven regimes can act pragmatically when their survival and strategic interests are at stake.

In summary, Trita Parsi's work serves as an essential resource for anyone seeking to understand the intricate and often paradoxical relationship between Iran and Israel, especially during the Khomeini era. It offers a reminder that in the world of international politics, things are rarely as they appear on the surface.

What is Radical Zionism?

Radical Zionism refers to a far-right ideological strand within the broader Zionist movement that advocates for extreme measures in pursuing Jewish sovereignty and security, often with little regard for the political, social, or human rights implications for Palestinians or other non-Jews in the region.

Key characteristics include:

Greater Israel: Radical Zionists often endorse the idea of a "Greater Israel," which includes not only the current State of Israel but also the West Bank, Gaza, and parts of neighboring territories. They see these areas as part of the biblical homeland of the Jewish people and reject any territorial concessions, even for the sake of peace.

Opposition to Palestinian Statehood: Radical Zionists are generally opposed to the creation of a Palestinian state. They often reject any negotiation with Palestinian leadership, arguing that giving up land would weaken Israel's security and identity as a Jewish state.

Settler Movement: Many Radical Zionists are associated with the Jewish settler movement in the West Bank, which seeks to expand Jewish presence in areas considered historically significant to Judaism. Some believe that Jewish law mandates the reclamation and settling of all these territories.

Militancy and Extremism: Some factions within Radical Zionism are willing to use violence or promote militaristic policies to achieve their goals. Radical Zionists often support the expansion of Israeli military operations, strict security measures, and aggressive responses to any perceived threat.

Religious and Nationalist Fusion: Radical Zionism is often intertwined with religious Jewish nationalism. Many adherents believe that Jewish sovereignty over all biblical lands is a divine mandate, elevating the political project of Zionism to a religious mission.

Radical Zionism differs from mainstream Zionism, which originally aimed for the establishment of a Jewish homeland through more pragmatic, political, and often secular means, with varying approaches to coexisting with Arabs and Palestinians.

What is Political Zionism?

Political Zionism is a movement that emerged in the late 19th century with the primary goal of establishing a Jewish homeland in Palestine. It is a significant ideological framework that shaped modern Jewish identity and the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. The movement has historical roots, philosophical underpinnings, and socio-political implications that are important to understand in the context of Jewish history, nationalism, and contemporary issues in Israel and Palestine.

Historical Context

The origins of political Zionism can be traced back to the widespread anti-Semitism and persecution faced by Jews in Europe, particularly in Eastern Europe and Russia. The Dreyfus Affair in France (1894-1906) highlighted the deep-seated anti-Semitism in European society, leading many Jews to question their place in a world that largely marginalized them. The rise of nationalist movements across Europe also influenced Jewish intellectuals and activists, prompting them to seek a national identity and homeland.

Theodor Herzl and the Foundation of Political Zionism

The movement gained momentum with the work of Theodor Herzl, an Austrian journalist who is often regarded as the father of political Zionism. Herzl argued that the Jewish people needed a sovereign state to escape the cycles of persecution and oppression. In 1896, he published "Der Judenstaat" ("The Jewish State"), in which he proposed the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine, then part of the Ottoman Empire. Herzl’s vision was rooted in political activism rather than religious aspirations, marking a departure from earlier forms of Jewish messianic thought.

In 1897, Herzl convened the First Zionist Congress in Basel, Switzerland, which formalized the political Zionist movement. The congress aimed to create a framework for Jewish immigration to Palestine and the establishment of a Jewish homeland. The congress produced the Basel Program, which declared the goal of the Zionist movement as the establishment of a "home for the Jewish people in Palestine secured by public law." This foundational moment set the stage for subsequent Zionist activities and laid the groundwork for future diplomatic efforts.

Ideological Foundations

Political Zionism is built on several key ideological principles:

Jewish Nationalism: At its core, political Zionism posits that Jews are a distinct nation with a right to self-determination in their ancestral homeland. This nationalist sentiment is rooted in the historical connection of the Jewish people to the land of Israel, which they view as their historical and cultural home.

Secularism: Unlike earlier forms of Zionism that were heavily influenced by religious beliefs, political Zionism emerged as a secular movement. Herzl and other early Zionist leaders emphasized the need for a modern, secular state that would provide safety and stability for Jews, irrespective of their religious affiliations.

Socialism and Labor Zionism: Many early Zionists were influenced by socialist ideologies, leading to the development of Labor Zionism. This branch of political Zionism emphasized the importance of creating a Jewish working class in Palestine through agricultural and industrial development. Leaders like David Ben-Gurion played a key role in promoting this vision, which sought to establish a socialist society in the Jewish homeland.

Key Events and Developments

The early 20th century saw increased Jewish immigration to Palestine, largely driven by the Zionist movement. Several key events and developments shaped the trajectory of political Zionism:

Balfour Declaration (1917): During World War I, the British government issued the Balfour Declaration, which expressed support for the establishment of a "national home for the Jewish people" in Palestine. This declaration was a significant diplomatic victory for the Zionist movement and paved the way for increased Jewish immigration and settlement in the region.

British Mandate for Palestine (1920-1948): Following World War I, the League of Nations granted Britain the mandate to govern Palestine. The mandate facilitated Jewish immigration and land acquisition, leading to growing tensions between Jewish and Arab populations in the region. Political Zionism became increasingly focused on negotiating with British authorities to secure political and territorial rights for Jews in Palestine.

Rise of Arab Nationalism: As Jewish immigration increased, so did Arab opposition to the Zionist movement. Arab nationalism emerged as a response to both Ottoman rule and British colonial policies. The conflicting national aspirations of Jews and Arabs in Palestine would ultimately lead to decades of conflict.

The Establishment of Israel

The culmination of political Zionism's efforts occurred with the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948. The declaration of independence was met with immediate military opposition from neighboring Arab states, resulting in the Arab-Israeli War of 1948. The war resulted in significant territorial gains for Israel, but also led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, an event referred to by Palestinians as the Nakba, or "catastrophe."

The establishment of Israel marked a significant achievement for political Zionism, but it also laid the groundwork for ongoing conflict and tension in the region. The quest for a Jewish homeland was now a reality, but the consequences of this endeavor would reverberate through the decades, leading to cycles of violence, occupation, and political strife.

Contemporary Relevance

Political Zionism continues to influence Israeli politics and society today. Various factions within Israeli society espouse different interpretations of Zionism, ranging from secular to religious and from leftist to rightist ideologies. Issues such as settlement expansion, the status of Jerusalem, and the rights of Palestinians remain contentious topics that reflect the ongoing impact of political Zionism.

Settlements and Land Issues: The expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem has been a source of international controversy and conflict. Critics argue that these actions undermine the possibility of a two-state solution and violate international law, while proponents assert that they are essential for the security and continuity of the Jewish state.

Palestinian Statehood and Rights: The conflict between Jewish and Palestinian national aspirations remains unresolved. Palestinian leaders and activists continue to advocate for statehood and rights, challenging the political Zionist framework that prioritizes Jewish self-determination.

Global Jewish Identity: Political Zionism has also shaped the global Jewish identity and diaspora. Many Jews outside of Israel feel a connection to the Zionist project and actively support it, while others voice concerns about its implications for Palestinian rights and social justice.

Conclusion

Political Zionism emerged as a response to historical persecution, national identity, and the quest for self-determination. It has profoundly shaped the Jewish experience and the modern state of Israel. While it achieved the goal of establishing a Jewish homeland, the movement has also been at the center of ongoing conflict and debate. Understanding political Zionism is crucial for grappling with contemporary issues in the Middle East and the complex dynamics of nationalism, identity, and conflict that continue to influence the region today. As we navigate these complexities, the principles and legacies of political Zionism remain pivotal in discussions about peace, justice, and coexistence in Israel and Palestine.

Who was Ayatollah Khomeini?

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini (1902–1989) was an Iranian Shia cleric, revolutionary, and political leader who became the founder and first Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. He played a central role in the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which overthrew the Pahlavi monarchy, led by Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and established an Islamic theocracy in Iran.

Key points about Khomeini:

Religious Scholar and Cleric: Khomeini was a Grand Ayatollah, one of the highest-ranking titles in Shia Islam. He spent years teaching Islamic philosophy, theology, and ethics.

Opposition to the Shah: Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Khomeini became a vocal critic of the Shah's policies, especially his close ties to the West, secularization, and modernization efforts, which Khomeini saw as anti-Islamic. His opposition to the Shah made him a popular figure among those dissatisfied with the regime.

Exile: Khomeini was exiled from Iran in 1964 for his outspoken criticism. He spent years in Turkey, Iraq, and eventually France, continuing his anti-Shah activities. Despite his physical absence, he remained a powerful symbolic leader through his writings, recorded speeches, and declarations.

1979 Iranian Revolution: The Shah's regime collapsed in 1979 after months of protests, strikes, and civil unrest. Khomeini returned to Iran in February of that year, where he was welcomed by millions of supporters. Shortly after his return, the monarchy was abolished, and Iran was declared an Islamic Republic following a national referendum.

Islamic Republic of Iran: Khomeini established a theocratic system of government based on the concept of Velayat-e Faqih (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist), where a religious leader holds ultimate political authority. He became the Supreme Leader, holding immense power over both the state and the armed forces.

Anti-Western and Anti-Israeli Sentiment: Khomeini's government adopted a strongly anti-Western and anti-Israeli stance, viewing Western influence as corrupting and imperialistic. His ideology inspired political Islam across the region and emphasized independence from foreign powers.

Iran-Iraq War: Under his leadership, Iran fought a brutal war with Iraq (1980–1988) after Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein invaded Iran. The war resulted in massive casualties and economic strain on both nations.

Legacy: Khomeini remains a deeply influential figure in Iran and among Islamic movements worldwide. While revered by many Iranians for leading the revolution, his legacy is also controversial due to the establishment of a strict theocracy and the repression of political opponents. His ideology continues to shape Iran’s domestic and foreign policies.

Khomeini passed away in 1989, and his successor, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, continues to hold the position of Supreme Leader.