Back to Index
How Long Have Israelis and Iranians Stood in Solidarity?
3/25/2026

How Long Have Israelis and Iranians Stood in Solidarity?

The origins of this alliance can be traced back to the era before 1979, when the two nations had a true alliance. During that period, Israeli companies built infrastructure in Iran, while also providing humanitarian aid during disasters. Although there’s no current government alliance, the citizens remain strong in holding support for each other during times of war and continuing their fight against the IRGC.

A notable turning point for this alliance came at the hands of the May 10-21, 2021 Gaza Conflict, which was triggered by protests over the planned eviction of Palestinian families from the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood in East Jerusalem and clashes at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, during Ramadan (https://imeu.org/resources/resources/palestine-2021-in-review/119).


During this 11-day conflict, thousands of Iranians took to social media to support Israelis who had been under attack. The digital solidarity that Iranians conducted was risky, as the IRGC can repress it, but it highlighted a desire for peace between the two nations. While only 25% of Iranians support formal diplomatic normalization with Israel, 60% to 70% oppose the IRGC's backing of Hamas and Hezbollah, creating a strong bond between Israelis and Iranians (https://mei.edu/publication/new-polling-highlights-iranians-views-irans-foreign-policy-and-regional-role/).


The recent outbreak of war in Iran has intensified the shared support and calls for peace. While the IRGC has attempted to rally its population against Israel, Iranian civilians have shown peace through rallies featuring Israeli and pre-revolution Iranian flags. These acts of solidarity reflect a recognition of opposing all objectives of the IRGC, and it benefits both societies to gain peace and mutual understanding between the two countries. During the first phase of the war, public support for the military conflict against Iran reached approval ratings of 80 to 90%, as support for the Iranian people grew (https://en.idi.org.il/articles/63704).


In sum, the long history of Israel and Iran solidarity has only grown stronger – showcasing that despite political conflicts, both sides hope for peace and a better future. 

Why it matters

The heavy amount of support Israel has shown for Iran, and vice versa, has rekindled the pre-Iranian Revolution alliance.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1) Why did fighting break out?

Israel views Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional proxy network as an existential threat.

Source: jpost.com/middle-east/faq/article-813195

2) When did Israel and Iran's relationship sever?

The relationship severed after the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Iran then branded Israel as an adversary.

Source: youtube.com/watch?v=mdSGc84clIw&t=1

3) What was Operation Rising Lion?

It was a 12-day military campaign launched by Israel against Iran on June 13, 2025, to neutralize the threat of Iran's advancing nuclear enrichment and ballistic missile programs.

Source: gov.il/en/pages/operation-rising-lion-key-factual-and-legal-aspects-of-the-iran-israel-hostilities-june-2025-11-aug-2025

Iran Israel 1979 Iranian Revolution Iranians Israelis