Why Does Iran Hate Israel?
Iran is a superpower that wants to rule, if not the world, then at least the Middle East. Israel, even though it is no superpower, stands in its way. It is no religious matter, but Iran views Israel’s powerful presence in the Middle East as a major problem.
Iran also has a lot of internal problems, so on one hand, it seems unclear why they constantly deal with Israel instead of solving their own problems. On the other hand, focusing on their own problems requires a major overhaul, which is of no interest to Iran’s rulers. They thus find it much easier, and see it as a much better option, to focus their attention on Israel.
There is no solution to the Iran-Israel situation other than for the people of Israel to unite “as one man with one heart.” We, the people of Israel, will then draw closer to each other and to the force of love, bestowal, and connection that dwells in nature, and we will then receive guidance as to what we need to do, and how we should live our lives.
Moreover, there is no spiritual root to the Iran-Israel tension. I actually think that we can both be friends. I do not think that Iran is truly a Muslim country. As much as I know Iranians personally, I can say that they are well educated and well mannered, and that free Iranians and free Jews hold several similarities in their character. While their regime disallows such expressions, the many Iranians I know personally, whom I have good recollections of, are quite sympathetic to Israel.
I also think that the Iranian majority does not hate us. Indeed, I think it is possible to reach a setup with Iran where we will prevent future military collisions and construct positive relations. Iranians themselves dislike fighting. In their character, they are very close to Jews. We should hope for a time when we can pave a way to peace between the two countries, and enjoy good relations. In the meantime, while the tensions are high, we need to defend ourselves militarily, and in terms of what else we can do to actualize peaceful relations, I do not know.
Spiritually, as a Kabbalist, I see the need for Israel to unite and pray to the Creator—the upper force of love, bestowal, and connection—for help. If we unite as one, then humanity will view us favorably, as advocates for peace. While we see an opposite picture to peace, with tensions running high, I am still sure we will eventually draw closer together and reach an agreement. Doing so depends on us, the people of Israel, standing firm in our values: that we will be strong in our tendency to unite (“love your neighbor as yourself”) above our divisions (“love will cover all crimes”) in order to be a conduit for unity to spread onward to humanity at large (to be “a light unto the nations”). Iranians need to see our consistency in holding to such values.
Iran changing its attitude to Israel might seem like it requires a miracle, but I see it happening. I also think we can reach positive relations between the two countries before a major catastrophe takes place. Recently, for instance, the Iranian regime tried to harm Israel, but it did not work. After that attack, I continue feeling warmth toward the Iranians and remain willing to connect with them.
The time will come when any hatred that Iranians bear toward Israel will shift to a desire to connect with us. In the meantime, however, we need to grow stronger, equip ourselves, and also strengthen our nation’s unity. Beyond arming ourselves, we need only unite as a nation, and wish for unity with the Creator, i.e., with the upper force that dwells upon us, protects us, sustains us, and promises us a good future. We can make this protective force influence us more if we unite as a nation and cultivate love among us. Doing so will also project a positive influence upon the Iranian people, as well as humanity as a whole. In short, when we unite, no one will want to harm us.
The hatred directed at Israel today is because of our internal behavior: our hatred and division among us invites hatred from others, including Iran. Therefore, military power alone can never resolve this conflict. Only the unity of the Jewish people can bring about harmony and peace, not just for the Jews, but for all nations.
Our unity can project peace and tranquility, and it begins in Israel—in how we treat each other. We need a strong, positive connection among Jews. When we unite, all nations of the world will also wish to connect peacefully with us.