Israel did not support Iran against Iraq during the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988). In fact, Israel had a complex and often contradictory relationship with both countries during this period.
Israel's Complex Relationship with Iran and Iraq
- Shared Enemy: Both Iran and Iraq were seen as threats by Israel. Iran's revolutionary government was hostile to Israel and supported Palestinian militant groups. Iraq, under Saddam Hussein, was also a staunch enemy of Israel and had fought several wars against it.
- Strategic Considerations: Israel's strategic interests often shifted based on the changing dynamics of the region. While Israel opposed both Iran and Iraq, it sometimes found itself aligning with one against the other, depending on the immediate threat.
- Secret Cooperation: Despite the open hostility, there were reports of secret cooperation between Israel and Iraq during the war. This cooperation allegedly involved intelligence sharing and arms sales, primarily aimed at weakening Iran.
- Shifting Alliances: The relationship between Israel and Iraq became more complex after the Iran-Iraq War. Israel saw Iraq as a potential partner against Iran, but this was complicated by Saddam Hussein's brutal regime and his use of chemical weapons against the Kurds.
Conclusion
Israel's position during the Iran-Iraq War was driven by a complex interplay of strategic considerations, shared enemies, and shifting alliances. While Israel did not openly support Iran, its actions were often dictated by a pragmatic approach to managing its security interests in a volatile region.
