Dan Snow's History Hit Iran & Israel: Allies to Enemies
52 snips
Jun 15, 2025 
Maziar Bahari, an Iranian-Canadian journalist and filmmaker, dives into the complex history of Iran and Israel's relationship. He unpacks how these nations transitioned from allies to fierce adversaries, highlighting pivotal military actions and shifts in alliances. The discussion sheds light on the Shah's foreign policy and its aftermath, exploring the implications for both countries' geopolitical stances today. Bahari also touches on Iran's connections with groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, emphasizing the intricate web of regional dynamics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Iran and Israel Were Former Allies
- Iran and Israel were once close partners with diplomatic and economic ties before 1979.
- Cooperation lasted decades despite religious and political differences between the two nations.
Iran's Jewish Community Today
- Iran has one of the Middle East's oldest Jewish communities, with about 20,000 Jews today.
- Jewish Iranians have faced legal restrictions despite relative safety and some political representation.
Jewish Iranian Emigration Experiences
- Many poor Iranian Jews emigrated to Israel around its founding and faced social challenges there.
- The Jewish community in Iran thrived professionally and educationally before 1979 under the Shah.