SECTION TWO

The relationship between Iran and Israel under the Shah's regime

THE LINKS BETWEEN THE SHAH'S REGIME AND ISRAEL

The economy during the Shah's rule in the clutches of the Zionists

A great danger exists for Islam, the independence and very existence of the country because of this bill which was perhaps devised by the Jewish spies and Zionists with the aim of destroying the country's independence and disrupting its economy, in the opinion of Mr. 'Alma's government, this bill is still in force and the government sees itself entitled to act upon it, even though it goes against both Shari 'a⁽¹⁸⁾ and constitutional laws and against the sensibilities of a nation of twenty million people in Iran, indeed of all Muslims. In accordance with the religious duty I have to the Iranian nation and the Muslims of the world, I announce that a danger exists. The noble Qur'an and Islam are in danger, the independence of the country and its economy are in the clutches of the Zionists who in Iran are manifest in the form of the Baha'i party, and in no time at all, if the Muslims maintain their lethal silence, they will, with the help of their agents, seize all the economic institutions of this country and the presence of the Muslim nation in all the country's affairs will be eliminated. The Iranian television has become a base for Jewish spies, and the government is aware of this and supports it. The Muslim nation will not be silent until this danger is removed, and if anyone is silent, then he will be responsible before God the Almighty and will be condemned to ruin in this world.

Imam's reply to questions put to him by merchants and guilds of Qum, dated March 1963 (Isfand 1341 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .34.

I know that no officer with a conscience approves of these crimes and acts brutality, and I am aware of and deplore tire pressures to which they are subject. I extend a fraternal hand to them in the hope of obtaining the salvation of Islam and Iran. Know that their hearts are troubled by this subordination to Israel, and that they do not wish Iran to be trampled by boots of the Jews. I declare to the heads of the Muslim states, whether Arab or non-Arab: the 'ulama of Islam, the religious leaders and pious people of Iran, together with its noble army, are the brothers of the Muslim states and share their losses and their gains. They abhor and are disgusted with the treaty with Israel, the enemy of Islam and Iran. I say this quite clearly; it they wish let the agents of Israel come put an end to my life.

Imam's message dated 2 May 1963 (12 Ordibehesht 1342 Al-IS). Sahifeh Noor Vol. 1, pp. 47-48.

The gentlemen must realize that the danger to rat once presented by the Bani Umayyad. This tyrannical regime is cooperating fully with Israel and its agents (the misguided and misguiding aha' i sect). The propaganda organs have been placed into their hands rid they enjoy extensive influence in the court. In the army, the Ministry f Education and other ministries, positions have been opened for them and they have been given sensitive jobs. Point out the danger of Israel and s agents to the people. In the mourning ceremonies, remind them of the calamities, which have befallen Islam, the religious centers, and the supporters of the divine law. Express your aversion to the treacherous government's act of sending a few thousand enemies of Islam, the nation Land the motherland to London to participate in an anti-Islamic and antelope meeting and for giving them the financial assistance needed for heir trip.

Imam's message dated 18 May 1963 (28 Ordibehesht 1342 Al-IS). Sahifeh Noor, Vo1, 1,p .52.

I was informed today that a number of preachers were taken to the offices of the security organization (SAVAK) and were told that they could speak about anything they liked other than three subjects: they were not to say anything bad about the Shah; not to attack Israel; and not to say that Islam is endangered. The problem is that if we don't concern ourselves with these three subjects then what else is there to talk about? All o our difficulties without exception stem from these three issues.

Imam's remarks dated 3 June 1963 (13 Khurdad 1342 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .56.

What exactly is the relationship between the Shah and Israel which causes the secret service to tell us neither to speak of Israel nor of the a what is the connection between the two? Can it be that the Shah is an Israeli? Does the secret service believe him to be Jewish? Surely this cannot be so; he professes to be a Muslim. He who claims to be a Muslim, according to the laws of Islam, is thereby a Muslim. Some connection between ourselves and Israel . . . perhaps this concern some kind of confidential matter. Maybe there is truth in what they say r it a certain organizations wanting to destroy the Shah. Don't you consider it a probability? If so then resolve the matter in some way. Somehow inform this man of these issues; it may cause him to wake up and become somewhat aware of the situation.

Imam's remarks dated 3 June 1963(13 Khurdad 1342 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .57.

And even more regrettable is the control Israel and its agents exercise in many of this country's sensitive matters and the grip they have on the country's economic institutions with the help of the government and the agents of the tyrannical regime. Israel is in a state of war with the Muslim governments, yet the Iranian government treats it as a close friend and provides it with all kinds of propaganda apparatus and facilitates the import of its goods in every way. I have repeatedly warned of the danger, danger for the holy religion, danger for the independence of the country, danger for the economy of the country. I deplore the term "the infidels are one nation" which has been put on the people's lips by these organizations. It is contradictory to the text of the word of God and is used to support Israel and its agents. It is a premise leading to the recognition of Israel and is used in support of Israel's agents and the misguided, deviating (Baha'is) sect.

Imam's warning to the Iranian nation on The country's independence, dated 7 April 1964 (18 Farvardin 1343 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .62.

The objective is Islam, it is the country's independence, it is the driving away of Israel's agents, it is the unification of Islamic countries. The entire country's economy now lies in Israel's hands; that is to say it has been seized by Israeli agents. Hence, they run most of the major factories and enterprises: the television, the Arj factory, Pepsi Cola etc. Two of the aeroplanes that were to take the pilgrims to Mecca belonged to Israeli airlines. The Saudi government protested and the regime was forced to back down. Today, even eggs are imported from Israel. Make firm your ranks. These are the agents of imperialism; the roots of imperialism must be deracinated.

Imam's remarks dated 10 April 1964 (21 Farvardin 1343 MIS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .64.

With this ominous plan of theirs (distancing the people from the clergy) they wish to make the public detest us so that gradually they (the people) Obey their overlords. If only it were just a matter of obeying the overlords, they mean to make us subject to Israel too.

What we object to is all forms of corruption. We believe that your reform programmers are in fact devised by Israel and it is to Israel that you turn for help and advice whenever you want to draw up a plan. You bring military advisers from Israel into this country. You send students from our country to Israel. If only they were sent elsewhere, to America or even to England for example. But no, you send them to Israel! These are the kinds of issues we dispute. We argue that all the Muslim countries have formed a united front on one side, in opposition to infidelity and Israel, whilst you and the Turkish government are stationed on the other side in support of Israel. We hold that this is ill advised. Don't go against the sensibilities of the Muslim peoples so, for I swear by God this is to your detriment. All of the Muslims on one side and Iran on the other! If this is to be the case, then the nation of Iran will become reproachable and our Sunni brothers will think that Shi' its are Jew worshippers . . . If so then come and explain to us in what way this can be said to constitute reaction. You who boast a history of two-and-a-half millennia of sovereign rule and endlessly crow about those rotten bones which have decomposed and are no more and which you now want to dig up from beneath the soil to use in your confrontation with Islam, have you now at this late hour joined forces with Israel against the precepts of Islam and against the Muslims? We are the ones who advocate your non-involvement with Israel, yet you now try to accuse us of collaboration with others and of being involved with so-and so. The Devil takes this reasoning! . How can you call a country, which is totally dependent upon foreign trade for its every need, developed? You bring specialists to Iran from Israel and send people to Israel to "learn Something. " Only this year you sent people there from Qum in order to "learn something. " What do they have to learn from the Jews, the art of cheating, deceiving and betraying? We believe that sending them there will result in nothing but ruin, and in ten, twenty or thirty years' time you will see that we were right. Send them and see if you gain anything other than ruin

Imam's speech dated 15 May 1964 (25 Ordibehesht 343 AMS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .77.

Now, as I am sitting here speaking to you, many of the good farmlands of are in the hands of Israel! People have written to me from 11am and told me that the good farmlands of this place have been given to Israel for farming sugar beets, and at the side of the road, these people who say we nothing to do with Israel have placed a sign which reads: the essential Iran-Israel farm. In an Israeli newspaper which was given e recently, there was something written about the Israeli ambassador in Tehran! (And the gentlemen say that we have nothing to do with 1!) A couple of days ago on 7 September (16 Shahrivar AHS) in the Darvaz-i Doulat district of Tehran, the Jews created such a hullabaloo. Or five hundred thieving Jews gathered together, and all that their speeches boiled down to was a eulogy to one and a tirade against another, hen they proclaimed that greatness belongs to the Jews, the Jews are chosen by God, we are a people who should govern, we are against dictatorship, we are against Hitlerism, and so on and so forth. This was the content of their speeches. These people come with the full knowledge of our government and openly say these things . . . It's wrong for a try to rely on the Jews. Is this that we say now very bad? Of course a bitter pill to swallow, it's bitter for you. Nevertheless, it is disastrous for an Islamic country, for Muslims, to rely on, to have relations or make agreements with a government which is now the enemy am, which opposes Islam and has usurped Palestine.

Imam's remarks dated 9 September 1964 (18 Shahrivar 1343 AHS). Sahifeh Noor Vol. 1,p .95.

Today, Iran's economy is in the hands of America and Israel. Its market is now out of the control of the Iranians and Muslims. The dust of bankruptcy and poverty has settled on the faces of the merchants and farmers. The reforms of the gentlemen have created a black market for America and Israel and there is no one who can help this poor nation.

Imam's message on the occasion of the Ratification of the Capitulation Bill, dated 26 October 1964 (4 Aban 1343 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p. 112.

Do not conclude a treaty of brotherhood with Israel, the enemy of Islam and the Muslims, which had turned more than a million defenseless Muslims into refugees. Do not offend the sensibilities of the Muslims. Do not permit Israel and its treacherous agents to penetrate further the bazaar of the Muslims; do not endanger the economy of the country for the sake of Israel and its agents . . . Submission to the demands of the pseudo-state of Israel and endangering the economy of this country are a sign of weakness, servility and treachery to Islam and the Muslims.

Open letter to Prime Minister Hoveyda Dated 16 April 1967 (27 Farvardin 1342 AHS. Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .134.

Our wretched people subsist in conditions of poverty and hunger, while the taxes that the ruling class extorts from them are squandered. They buy Phantom jets so that pilots from Israel and its agents can come and train in them in our country. So extensive is the influence of Israel in our country - Israel, which is in a state of war with the Muslims, so that those who support it are likewise in a state of war with the Muslims - and so great is the support the regime gives it, that Israeli soldiers come to our country for training! Our country has become a base for them! The markets of Country is also in their hands. If matters go on this way, and the continue to be apathetic, their markets will be lost to them.

The book Islamic Government,p .167.

They set fire to the al-Aqsa mosque. We cry out: "Leave the al-Aqsa Hue half-burned to the ground; do not erase all traces of the crime!" the Shah's regime opens an account, sets up a fund, and starts colleting money from the people supposedly to rebuild the mosque, but v to fill the pockets of our rulers while also covering up the crime committed by Israel.

The book Islamic Government,p .38.

Israel, the universally recognized enemy of Islam and the Muslims, at war the Muslim peoples for years, has, with the assistance of the despicable government of Iran, penetrated all the economic, military and political affairs of the country. It must be said that Iran has become military base for Israel, which means. By extension, for America.

Imam's message dated 8 February 1971 (19 Bahman 1349 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1. p. 157.

While these tragic circumstances and conditions prevail around the country, millions of tumans are to be spent celebrating in honor of the monarchy. According to reports, 80 million tumans are to be spent on ran alone, preparing the city' for the festivities. Experts have been invited from Israel to take care of the arrangements for the celebrations; ~i Israel, that country which is the enemy of Islam, which is at present at war with Islam, which destroyed the al-Aqsa mosque - a crime which e people sought to cover up. In addition, according to the world's major radio stations, Iranian oil tankers are on their way to Israel filled r Iranian oil for a country, which is at war with the Muslims! These are

Imam's remarks dated 27 May 1971 (6 Khurdad 1350 AHS). Sahifeh Noor Vol. 1,p .168.

Illegal imprisonment, contrary to both the law of the land and Shari 'a law, is the revenge which this imperialist-placed regime is taking on Islam and its adherents You must go to the barracks, the theological schools must be dishonored, and as soon as one is accused, imprisonment, exile or execution must follow so that the way is made ever more open for the masters of the heft and right and their henchmen, among them Israel! . The Shah's regime has been given the mission to hand over that, which is held sacrosanct in the country to Israel and its mentors

Imam's message to the Iranian nation, Dated 11 September 1972 (20 Shahrivar 1351 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1, pp. 189- 190.

At this present time, we are confronted with the heavy blows, which are inflicted ever more increasingly day by day on Islam, and with the problems and disorganization which beset the Islamic nations more than ever before. On one side there is the story of Palestine and the al-Aqsa mosque, the displacement of the innocent people of that land and the given the occupying Jews by the great imperialist governments - With the perpetuation of this germ of corruption. God forbid, a great lies ahead for all the Islamic countries, in particular the Arab there are broader and more extensive plans in the making which the true face of the agents of imperialism and the nature of their plans through which they mean to destroy the strongholds of anti-imperialism and turn them instead into fortresses in the service of Zionism and its servants. Plans through which they mean to push aside the learned ulama, the respected preachers and those in the service of Islam and put pseudo-clergymen and agents of the corrupt organizations in their place at the altars and pulpits of Islam and the exalted Messenger. May the peace of God be upon him and his descendants? Granting immunity to American military personnel and their dependants, shattering the country's prestige, destroying its judicial independence and putting the American and Zionist pillagers in control of all military, commercial, industrial and agricultural affairs and of its markets, are some of the other portentous consequences of this "honorable" revolution of the tyrannical regime I don't know if all these weapons have been purchased to drive out the overlords and the imperialists or not, for the regime itself has been put in place by them, has turned Iran into a military base for them and has given them a free hand in all the military, political and economic affairs of the country. Or have they in fact been purchased to carry out the raptorial plans of America who may now have changed its policy, because its economy is weak, to one of strengthening its bases in Iran and crushing the defenseless nation of Iran and other freedom-seeking nations in the region that are struggling against the occupiers of Palestine and other plundering foreigners, using their own power and wealth.

Imam Khomeini's message dated March 1973 (Farvardin 1352 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1. Pp. 200-202.

At this time, when the flames of war between the Muslims and the Zionist infidels are blazing and the people of Islam have taken their lives in their hands and are making sacrifices on the battlefields to get what is rightfully theirs from the usurper Israel, the Iranian government have, on the orders of the Shah, initiated celebrations throughout the country on the anniversary of the two-and-a-half-millennia of monarchy festival, a festival for bloodthirsty kings, the likes of whom we are seeing today. The Muslims wallow in blood for the glory and greatness of Islam and the freedom of Palestine, while the Shah of Iran sets festivities and merrymaking in motion for the vulgar, imperial regime. At the same time as the great Islamic and Arab nation is defending the honor of Islam aiid the Muslims, the Islamic girls schools in Iran are attacked on the orders of this nefarious man and the girls are stripped of their veils and shown great disrespect. At a time when the enemies of Islam are threatening the Islamic countries and zealous men with a sense of honor bravely rise up in their defence and to defend their rights, the Shah of Iran, by creating spectacles across Iran, has brought about a big show, and, in the name of the 'ulama of Islam, has had congratulatory telegrams sent to himself signed with the signatures of court-affiliated, pseudo-clergymen created by the Endowment and Security organizations. Under these circumstances, when the Muslims are making sacrifices for the freedom of Palestine and their lands, the Shah sends large numbers of prominent 'ulama. Scholars and teachers of the theological centers, along with many other Iranian intellectuals, into exile or throws them into jail and subjects them to the most barbaric forms of torture. One could say that these scenes they make and these arrests are simply to keep the Iranian nation preoccupied with their own problems and their minds off the Islamic nation's war with Israel. It is out of fear of the broadening of the struggle, the creation of a consensus among all the classes of society and the expression of support by the Muslim nation of Iran for the just war of the Arab people that the Shah has resorted to these illegal and unwarranted imprisonments and expulsions of 'ulaina and intellectuals. He fears lest they should protest as to why the regime in Iran remains indifferent towards such a vital issue with which the Muslims are now confronted, and why, when nearly all the Muslim governments and many of the non-Muslim governments are supporting the Arabs at war, the Iranian government and the despicable Shah, out of obedience to America and to display even more subservience, remain apparently mute on the issue but in reality side with Israel.

It is this Shah of Iran who has given the Israelis a free hand throughout Iran, who has endangered the economy of Iran and who, according to reports in some of the foreign newspapers, sends Iranian officers to Israel for training. It is this Shah who has handed over Iranian oil to the enemies of Islam and humanity to be used in the war with the brave Muslims and Arabs and who, through the recent ignominious agreement and the Increase in the production of oil, has risen to fight against the oil-Producing countries who wish to use the oil weapon against America. It i~ this plundering, this purchase of billions of dollars worth of weapons and this continuous, back-breaking expenditure on celebrations by the Shah which cause living expenses to rise, which bring about a dizzying rise in the price of goods and which threaten Iran with famine. I am afraid that the billion dollar weapons he has bought from his world-devouring masters, dragging Iran into bankruptcy in the process, will now be sent to Israel. I fear that with the ammunition that has been procured at the cost of famine, hunger and the blood of the deprived people of Iran, the Iranian army will be forced to train their sights on the zealous hearts of the combatants of Islam. I sense danger for the Islamic world because of this unquestioning obedience to America. It is now up to the honorable nation of Iran to stop this tyrant from carrying out these crimes and to the army of Iran and the men of position to humiliate them no longer and to instead seek a solution for the independence of their motherland.

It is the duty of the brave nation of Iran to block the interests of America and Israel in Iran and to attack them, even though this may result in their destruction. It is the duty of the learned 'ulaina and the preachers to bring the crimes of Israel to the notice of the people in the mosques and religious circles. The learned 'ulama and noble nation of Iran should not keep silent on this matter. It is imperative that they persuade the Shah through whatever means possible to join the ranks of the Muslims and to refrain from committing further treason against the Qur'an and its followers. Publicize the crimes of this bloodthirsty afreet more, so that its hidden face may be better revealed. And if the Jews of Iran are busy securing help for Israel (which they are and most certainly they receive help from the Shah), it is incumbent on the nation of Iran to prevent this and to start a relief fund for the fighters who spend their days in fire and blood, and to stop at nothing in their efforts to help. I personally have repeatedly pointed out the danger of Israel and its agents, at the head of who is the Shah of Iran. As long as the nation of Islam does not pull this germ of corruption out by its roots, its future will be bleak, and as long as Iran is in the grip of this heinous family, she will never look upon the face of freedom. I ask of God the Exalted to assist the Muslims and render helpless Israel and its black agents. Ruhollah al-Musavi al-Khomeini

Imam's message dated 14 September 1973 (23 Shahrivar 1352 AHS) Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .206.

We were witness to how the Iranian government, on the orders of the Shah, officially recognized Israel at a time when the Muslims were at war with these infidels, and how the 'ulama opposed this act. We were witness to the aid given to Israel by this black-hearted man while Israel was making Muslims homeless and shedding their blood. Oil, arms and other aid, the funds for which were secured through the blood and toil of the Iranian nation, were put at their disposal Because I consider the Lebanese situation important and follow it devotedly, I fear that; just as Iran was made into an American colony through the cunning of the evil agents of the embassy, the same thing will also happen in Lebanon and Israel will implement its plans in the region with complete peace of mind. You must keep watch on the operations of the Iranian embassy with the utmost vigilance, and prevent their tricks succeeding.

Imam's reply to a letter, 4 November 1977 (13 Aban 1356 AHS Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .248.

In fact this wretch (the Shah) recognized Israel twenty years ago. I was in Qum at the time. He gave his recognition to a government of infidel's -and Jewish infidels at that - thereby affronting Islam, the Qur'an, the Muslim governments and the entire Muslim people. The name of Israel was not openly mentioned at first, but later it was. Indeed, this person was a servant from the very beginning, as he himself later made clear.

Imam's speech dated 18 February 1978 (29 Bahman 1356 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 2,p .32.

Is the Shah's pro-Israeli policy one of the reasons for your to the regime?

Reply: Yes, for Israel has occupied the land of a Muslim people and has perpetrated numerous crimes. The Shah's action of maintaining political relations with Israel and giving it economic aid goes against the interests of Islam and Muslims.

Imam's interview with the le monde Newspaper, 6 May 1978 (16 Ordibehesht 1357 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 2, p.

On the other front however, the regime has handed wherever and whatever is of value over to large American, Zionist or British companies; and they have done so in the name of nationalization. They have handed over our forests, pastures, water sources, rivers, subterranean waters and so on . . . It is said that the 'omran Plain, situated on the outskirts of Qazvin, is the best place for cultivation. They have forced the people there to migrate elsewhere and have handed this land over to the Jews, the Zionists. Yes, they have given it to the Jews who are now using it to their own ends; American and Zionist companies reaping the benefits. These pieces of land, which are second to none, are now theirs to farm and cultivate.

Imam's interview with the Le Monde 31 May 1978 (10 Khurdad 1357 AHS). Sahifeh Noor Vol. 2,p .69

Question: What is your opinion of the Palestinian people's struggle? Taking into consideration the fact that more than half of Israel's oil is supplied by Iran, what measures should be taken by Iran on this matter?

Reply: One of the reasons for the uprising of the Muslim people of Iran against the Shah is the unsparing support he gives the usurper Israel. He provides Israel's oil and has turned Iran into a market for Israeli goods; in be offers other kinds of support expressed in the spirit of his if not in the letter, while at the same time he merely condemns Israel in an attempt to deceive world opinion. Neither the Muslim nation of Iran nor any Muslim, nor, in principle, any freedom-seeker, officially Israel, and we will always be the supporters of our Palestinian Arab brothers.

Imam's interview with the Middle East News Bulletin, 17 November 1978 (26Aban 1357 AHS) Sahifeh Noor Vol. 3,p .178

Now, however, he (the Shah) imports everything from abroad. And whatever is brought into the country comes either from Israel . . . Israel the enemy of Islam! God only knows what treason this man has committed against Islam. Israel is the enemy of Islam; it is currently at war with the Muslims. From the very beginning this regime gave it official recognition. Twenty-five or thirty years ago when it was actually at war with the Muslims, these people officially recognized Israel! Then however, they did not make this known to the public. And today, as the end draws nigh, you can all see how one of Muhammad Reza Khan' s strongest advocates, one of the keenest proponents for the continuation of his rule, is Israel. For the Israelis argue that if he goes they will lose their supply of oil, because this regime is supplying Israel with its oil. In other words, they give the oil Of a Muslim land to the enemy of Muslims to help it wage war against the this is the kind of traitor this wretch is! He sends our oil to in their tankers, he gets it to them by their own means, to the Israelis with this oil wage war against the Muslims and who have usurped the Muslims' land, destroying everything they have. Look what they have Palestine, look how they have usurped Bait ul-Moqaddas (Jerusalem) this is just one of the treacherous acts this man has against Islam and the Muslims. Within Iran itself he has Betrayed the Muslims for the sake of the Israelis. As I have been told, the land of Iran has been given to the Israelis. The best land of Iran has handed over to these Israeli Jews for them to work on and reap the benefit of.

Imam's remarks dated 25 November 1978 (4 Azar 1357 AHS) . Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 3, pp. 253-254.

Question: We know that by establishing close relations with Iran and by sting the Iranian regime, international Zionism has always managed to p Iran apart from the Arabs in their struggle against Israel. What is view on this?

Rely: One of the reasons why we have been placed in a position of opposition to the Shah is the help he gives Israel. I have repeatedly stated that the Shah has co-operated with Israel from its inception, and when the between Israel and the Muslims reached its zenith, the Shah unlawfully gave the oil of the Muslims to Israel. This matter is itself amongst the reasons why I oppose the Shah. The Muslim nation of Iran has never supported Israel and because of this it been exposed to the oppression and aggression of the Shah's regime.

Imam's interview with Amal, 7 December 1978 (16 Azar 1357 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 4,p .30.

Question: As you know, the Islamic revolution in Palestine began on 1 January 1956, and after the defeat of 1967, became more powerful and spread. Did this news reach the people of Iran, and if so, through means?

Reply: Yes, the news reached them through the same means as it reaches de in other countries. However, the Shah's regime tried to report the; of the Muslims' war with the infidel in a way that was favourable to the infidel, as it has always done, and as usual it presented the Arabs as a handful of people who do rot fully understand matters. The regime is one Of the biggest supporters of Israel. The Iranian radio, indeed all the means of communication collectively, whether those controlled by the regime or those, which operated under pressure from the regime, worked to the advantage of Israel. We were the ones who from the very beginning opposed all the programmers and still do.

Imam's interview with a reporter from The Palestinian Vafa news agency, 15 December 1978 (24 Azar 1357 AHS).

Apparently some of the 'ulama from Qum went to Abadan to study the situation there, and it was said that these 600,000 barrels of oil which are being exported are being sent to Israel. Some of the workers did not go on strike, and now 600,000 barrels are being sent abroad out of a total of some ten million barrels that were exported previously. The regime deceived these workers by telling them that this oil was to be used for the running of the country! They said it was for us! And so the poor workers carried on working. However, now it is clear, from what is being said, that this oil is going to Israel. It is illegal, it is sinful (haram), for this group of people, who have disregarded the strike by others and have been deceived by the government into believing the oil is for domestic consumption, to refuse to join the strike when they know that this oil is destined for Israel, the enemy of the Qur'an and Islam. They will have to answer to God and the nation. All of them (the oil workers) should go on strike, so that not even one drop of oil leaves the country. The nation of Iran is ready to suffer from the cold as long as Israel, which is harming Islam so, which is killing the Muslims so, doesn't have its oil

Imam's remarks dated 16 December 1978 (25 Azar 1357 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 4, pp. 77-78.

Question: If you cut your relations with Israel for being a country which Oppresses the people, do you not think that for the same reason you will cut relations with some of the Western Governments too?

Reply: We oppose any country that carries out oppression whether it is in the West or the East. Israel has usurped the rights of the Arab people and we will stand in opposition to it. Israel is the biggest supporter of the Shah and is responsible for setting up SAVAK. For this reason, Israel is a partner in the crimes of SAVAK and the Shah.

Imam's interview with an American University professor, 28 December 1978 (7 Dey 1357 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 4, p. 104.

I have been told that soldiers from Israel carried out these massacres, which have taken place, but I do not have concrete proof of this. A few days ago someone - I can't remember his name - came here and told me that when he and a few others were travelling to Abadan, they stopped along the way to ask for directions and saw a soldier standing nearby. They called him over to them and realized that he didn't understand Persian, so one of the group spoke to him in Arabic and they learned that he was an Arab from Israel! The man himself admitted that he had been brought to Iran from Israel. A truck stood nearby full of his colleagues. These people have used Israeli soldiers to kill the people of our nation

Imam's remarks dated 14 January 1979 (24 Dey 1357 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 4,p .225.

Beasts that, in line with their oppressive and tyrannical nature, destroyed our youths as they languished in their prisons ruled us, torturing and killing them in the most horrendous of manners. Torturers were even brought in from Israel to teach the techniques of torture.

Imam's address to a gathering of foreign Ambassadors and diplomats, 11 February 1981 (22 Bahman 1359 Al-IS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 14,p .67.

IMAM'S STANCE ON ISRAEL BEFORE THE CULMINATION OF THE ISLAMIC REVOLUTION (before 1979)

THE Baha'is: agents of Israel

THE gentlemen should realize that many sensitive posts are in the hands of sect (the Baha'is sect) who are in fact agents of Israel. The danger And Iran faces from Israel are very close; a pact with Israel in. opposition to the Muslim governments has either been made or is in the process of being made. It is necessary that the learned 'ultra and preachers make the other classes aware of this so that we can it in time. Today is not the day to adopt the method of our pious forefathers; we shall lose everything by keeping silent and not getting involved.

Imam's reply to the 'ulama of Yazd, Dated April/May 1963 (Ordibehesht 1342 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .44.

I declare to the heads of the Muslim states, whether Arab or non-Arab: Ulama of Islam, the religious leaders and pious people of Iran, with its noble army, are the brothers of the Muslim states and their losses and their gains. They abhor and are disgusted with the with Israel, the enemy of Islam and Iran. I say this quite clearly; if wish, let the agents of Israel come put an end to my life.

Imam's message dated 2 May 1963 (12 Ordibehesht 1342 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .48.

Today the Muslims, and in particular the learned 'ulama, have a great responsibility before God the Blessed and Exalted. By our silence, we expose future generations until the end of time to the danger of deviation and unbelief, and we are responsible. The danger we face from Israel and its heinous agents threatens Islam and Iran with extinction. I do not value a few days of life in shame and disgrace, and I expect the learned 'ulama and other classes of Muslims to come together and save the Quran and Islam from the danger which faces them.

Imam's reply to the 'ulama of Hamid Dated 6 May 1963 (16 Ordibehesht 1342 AHS Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .50.

I ask the Muslim governments, why do you fight over rivers? ⁽¹⁹⁾ the land of Palestine has been usurped. 0 you hopeless ones, you should be throwing the Jews out of Palestine, instead you are fighting each other! Palestine has been usurped and you are squabbling over a river! While you dispute over a river, the Israelis have established a government in Palestine. They have driven those misfortunate Arabs out, and now a million or more of them are sleeping in deserts, hungry and bereft. They have become completely homeless and wretched. Shouldn't the Muslim governments raise any objections? Shouldn't they say something? Should you enter into an alliance with a government, which has thrown one million Muslims out of their homeland and made them homeless?

If you have not formed an alliance with them, well announce that you haven't in your newspapers; allow that which I am saying now to be published. If you refuse to do so, then obviously you have aligned yourselves with them, you have aligned yourselves with the Jews, with You see what the agents of Israel do in this country.

Imam's speech, dated (18 Shahrivar 1343 Sahifeh Noor , Vol. 1,p .95.

I declare to all the Muslim governments and the Muslims of the world wherever they are that the dear Shi' ite nation abhors Israel and its agents and detests and is disgusted with those governments which co-operate with Israel. It is not the nation of Iran, which is presently making terms with the detested Israel, the nation of Iran is not guilty of this great sin, it is these governments which are doing this and which are in no way supported by the nation.

Imam Khomeini's warning to the nation About the danger facing Islam, dated 7 April 1964 (18 Farvardin 1343 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p. 63.

Today it is the duty of the heads of Islamic countries, the kings and the presidents of Islamic countries to put aside these petty differences, which occasionally arise among them. There are no Arabs and non-Arabs, Turks and Persians; there is only Islam and unity under Islam. They should adopt the same method of struggle that the Prophet o~ Islam used in his struggle, they should follow the way of Islam. If they guard their ideological unity, if they put aside these occasional petty differences, if all the Muslims join together, then, according to estimations, there will be a community of seven hundred million. But seven hundred million people are not as great as one million united. Seven hundred million people are of no use, thousands of millions of divided people do anything either. However, if these seven hundred million, if. Only four hundred million of them, two hundred million of them, were to unite together, join hands in brotherhood together, protect each other's protect their own boundaries, if they were to unite in the Islamic community which is common to us all, in the religion of monotheism s common to us all, in the Islamic interests that we share, then the Jews would no longer covet Palestine and India would no longer have on Kashmir. That is why they don't let you unite. The hands that want to take your resources away from you, that want to take your wealth free of charge, that want to plunder both your underground resources and those that lie he ground, they won't let Iraq and Iran, Iran and Egypt, Turkey and unite together. They won't let them join forces. It is the duty of the leaders to sit down together and reach a mutual understanding. They protect their own borders; each one should preserve there boundaries and territorial integrity then join forces against that foreign who causes you so much harm. There is a group of thieving Jews in Palestine who have kept more than a million Muslims dispersed for ten more than ten years, and have occupied Islamic lands. All the r leaders do is mourn over their plight. But if they unite, how can this bunch of thieving Jews take Palestine from you and drive the Muslims out of Palestine while you look on helplessly?

Imam's remarks, dated 14 November 1965 (23 Aban 1344 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .120.

I have repeatedly invited the Muslim governments to unity and hood in order to confront the foreigners and their supporters who want to create discord amongst the Muslims and the Muslim governments and keep our dear countries weak and captives of imperialism and thus Exploit their spiritual and material resources. I have repeatedly cautioned governments, and in particular the Iranian government, against Israel its dangerous agents. This source of corruption, which has been Placed in the heart of the Islamic countries with the support of the great powers and whose corrupt roots threaten the Islamic countries every day, must be deracinated through the efforts of the Islamic countries and the great nations of Islam. Israel has embarked on an armed attack against the Islamic countries and it is incumbent upon the governments and nations of Islam to eradicate it. Helping Israel, whether through the sale of arms and explosives or through the sale of oil is forbidden and is contrary to Islam. Having relations with Israel or its agents, whether they are commercial or political, is forbidden and is contrary to Islam. Muslims should refrain from using Israeli goods. I ask God the Exalted for the victory of Islam and the Muslims.

May peace and blessings be upon those who follow the guidance? Ruhollah al-Musavi al-Khomeini

Imam's message to the Muslim Governments and nations, dated 8 June 1967 (18 Khurdad 1346 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .139

Imam's interview with representatives from al-Fatah
about Assisting the al-Fatah guerrillas

The necessity of supporting and allocating religious
funds to the Palestinian combatants

First question: Your Holiness, the leader of the combatants, what is your respected opinion on the giving of religious funds such as zaka⁽²⁰⁾ and sahi Imam⁽²¹⁾ to the brave combatants who, under the command of the Fatah movement, are on the front lines of the battle with the enemy and are fighting on the battlefield of honor?

Most certainly it is proper and indeed obligatory that some of the religious funds such as Zakat and other alms be allocated in a sufficient amount to these combatants who are fighting in the way of God; these combatants who fight on the line of battle and make sacrifices in order to destroy the atheist and anti-human Zionist movement, who strive to revive and restitute the lost glory and honor of Islam and who battle to respect the illustrious history of Islam. It is incumbent on every Muslim who believes in God and the day of retribution to use all the power at his disposal in this path and eventually attain one of these good things: martyrdom or victory. It is your duty to go to the front line and take vengeance for the bloodshed and thus erase the mark of shame. Obtain aid and assistance from God's domain and secure the shining victory, which is close. Then give glad tidings to the believers for God is the supporter of every courageous and truth-seeking decision: And another (favor will He bestow), which ye do love - help from God and a speedy victory. So give glad tidings to the believers. (Qur'an 6 1:13). And God is the supporter of this intent. It is incumbent on us to use all the powers and means at our disposal to help our brothers, the great men of the Fatah movement and their fighting forces al- 'Assifa, who, with the help of God the Almighty, will achieve the ultimate victory, and the other noble, self-sacrificing fighters who struggle in the way of God. And God guarantees success. Second question: After the kindling of the fire of holy revolution in the land of Palestine and the attainment of many revolutionary achievements under the leadership of Fatah, what is Your Excellency's opinion of our brothers who are resisting in the entrenchments and in the occupied lands?

My first and last opinion about our steadfast and militant brothers is that they should tirelessly continue in their battle because life is belief and struggle in the way of that belief. A matter about which there is no room for doubt, according to Islamic thought, is that death is better than this humiliating life. Therefore, in our present situation there is no other way but to continue to struggle with all the forces and means at our disposal, until, through the greatness of Islam, we attain glory and honor for ourselves and for future generations throughout history. "Against them make ready your strength, to the utmost of your power, including steeds of war to strike terror into the hearts of the enemies of God and your enemies. " (Qur'an 8:60). "0 ye who believe, if ye will aid (the cause of) God, he will aid you and plant your feet firmly. " (Qur'an 47:7). "So lose not heart, nor fall into despair, for ye must gain mastery if ye are true in faith. " (Qur'an 3:139). "And slacken not in following up the enemy, if ye are suffering hardships, they are suffering similar hardships; but ye have hope from God, while they have none. " (Qur'an 4:104). So then, oh ye people of Fatah, turn to God for help and hasten to the imminent victory and give glad tidings to the believers.

Third question: Would you please give your respected opinion on the culminating armed struggle taking place in the holy land of Palestine and the barbaric measures taken by the Zionists against the Arab and Muslim nation so that our Muslim people in all the countries will muster their material and spiritual forces and eventually take part in the holy war.

As 1 pointed out earlier, under the circumstances facing Islam and the Muslims at the moment, this is a matter of duty. After submitting to the holy laws of Islam, I know of no matter which is more obligatory for the Muslims 8. I'l rising up in defence at the cost of one's life and property for the sake Of Islam. When you see the blood of your innocent brothers and sisters flowing in the holy lands of Palestine, and when you witness our lands being destroyed at the hands of the destructive Zionists, under these circumstances there is no way other than to continue the holy war and it is the duty of every Muslim to render material and moral support. And God is the supporter of this intent. Fourth question: At present, when the hands of the Zionists have infiltrated all the vital affairs of the Muslim country of Iran, what, in Your Excellency's opinion, is the best method the Muslim nation in Iran can adopt to sever the hands of Zionism?

The best way is for the Muslim people of Iran to strive with all the means at their disposal to stop doing business completely with Zionists in Iran and elsewhere. They should break their spirit and render them helpless materially; they should restrict their opportunities and embark on an economic struggle against them. They should fight against them in other areas too so that eventually they will be forced to sever all their relations with Iran and with the Muslim people there. Consequently, the Iranian nation can then place all its material and spiritual resources at the disposal of these freedom fighters. These painful circumstances make it necessary for all Muslims to use all their forces to free the occupied lands and wreak vengeance on the occupiers. And God guarantees success. There is no room for doubt on one point, and that is this is the duty of each individual Muslim, even those Muslims in the farthest reaches of the Islamic world, just as it is the duty of the Muslim people of Palestine. The Muslims are like a hand, which is held up in front of anything, that is against them and all share the same responsibilities. Disunion and racism have no place here and nothing places one Islamic nation above another except piety and devoutness. "Verily the most honored of you in the sight of God is he who is the most righteous," (Qur'an 49:13). "For us God sufficeth, and He is the best disposer of affairs, "(Qur'an 3:173).

Imam's interview with representatives from al-Fatah about assisting the al-Fatah guerrillas. September/October 1968 (Mehr 1347 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .136-137.

I have also pointed this out before that the usurper government of Israel, with the aims that it has, poses a great danger to Islam and the Muslim countries. There is reason to fear that if the Muslims give them (the Israelis) a respite, they will lose their opportunity and stopping them will be imposes. Since the potential danger is to the very foundations of Islam, it is incumbent on the Muslim governments in particular and Muslims in general to repulse this source of corruption in whatever way ~0ssib1e and not to neglect helping the defenders. It is permitted for them to use money from the Zakat funds and other alms to carry out this vitally important task. I ask God the Most High to prepare the motives for the rousing and awakening of the Muslims and to repel the evil of the enemies of Islam from the Muslim lands.

Imam's reply to a letter from a group of ~ dated August 28, 1968 (Shahrivar 6, 1347 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. L. p .144-145.

You have no knowledge of the dreams they have for these countries. I have repeatedly brought the danger posed by the government of Israel and its agents to the attention of the nation and have told them they must adopt a policy of passive resistance towards them and avoid doing business with them.

Imam' s telegram, July/August 1970 (Murdad 1349 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p .155.

At the head of all these disasters, there is Palestine. Differences and the mercenary nature of some of the leaders of Islamic have not given the seven hundred million Muslims of the world the chance nor the possibility, despite their wealth, minerals and other natural resources, to sever the hands of imperialism and Zionism and to limit foreign influence, Selfishness, servitude and the surrender by some Arab governments to direct foreign influence have prevented the tens of millions of Arabs from freeing Palestine from Israeli occupation and usurpation Everyone must know that the goal of the great powers in creating Israel does not end with the occupation of Palestine. They are planning to make all the Arab countries share in Palestine's fate, God forbid. Today, we are spectators of the Palestinian combatants' struggle in their holy war (jihad~ to place the destiny of Palestine into the hands of the Palestinians; we are onlookers as these freedom fighters take their lives in their hands and bravely rise up in holy war against occupation and aggression and to free Palestine and the occupied lands; we are spectators of that which the hands of the imperialist appointees did to these freedom fighters yesterday in Jordan and what they are doing to them today in Lebanon; we are spectators of the propaganda that is instigated by the imperialist appointees and the machinations that are carried out by them, in various ways, all with the aim of distancing the Muslim groups from the Palestinian combatants and of throwing the battle out of the strategic areas - for it would have given them a prime opportunity to deal a serious blow to the forces of Israel and Zionism, this usurping enemy.

Under such circumstances, do the Muslims and the heads of the Islamic states not have a duty and a responsibility before God? Morally and rationally are they not obliged to help? Is it right that imperialist appointees in areas under imperialist sway while others remain silent in the face of this crime and even collaborate and conspire together to throw this freedom-bestowing jihad out of its most suitable and strategic zone massacre the Palestinian freedom fighters? Do not the Arab governments and the Muslim residents of this region know that with the annihilation of this jihad, the other Arab countries will not be safe and secure from the malevolence of this perverse enemy? Today, in order to safeguard their own independence, it is necessary for all Muslims in general and the Arab regimes and governments in particular to devotedly aid and support this group of fighters and not to spare any effort in supplying them with arms and provisions. The self-sacrificing fighters must continue resolutely and earnestly, by relying on God and holding fast to the teachings of the Qur'an, to reach their holy aim. They should not despair because of the indifference or apathy of some elements nor let this deal a blow to their zeal for freedom. It should be emphasized that relations between these fighters and the people of the areas where they are active must be based on Islamic brotherhood and good conduct. I ask all aware, vigilant and far-sighted Muslims, especially God's pure servants and the learned 'Ulama, to beseech God during these blessed days to help the Muslims free themselves from the perverse rule of imperialism. In the gatherings of the holy month of Ramadan, and other great Islamic gatherings such as Friday Prayers and hajj strive to make the truth known to all Muslims and invite the people to follow the (teachings of the) Qur'an which call for everyone to unite. Join hands to liberate Palestine and resolve the destructive problems with which the entire Islamic world is grappling. I ask God, the Most Great, to sever the hands of foreigners from Muslim lands. And He is the listener and the acceptor.

Imam's message calling for support for Palestine, 10 November 1972 (19 Aban 1351 AHS). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1, p.

"And slay them wherever ye catch them. and turn them out from where they have turned you out," (Qur'an 2:191). "And fight them on until there is no more tumult or oppression, "(Qur'an 2:193). Now that the usurping government of Israel has begun to excite more disturbances, to encroach further on Arab lands, to stretch out usurping hands against the ones on the side of right and fan the flames of war for the umpteenth time, and now that our Muslim brothers have taken their lives in their hands and are fighting on the fields of battle, the fields of honor, to root out this source of corruption and to free Palestine, it is incumbent on all governments of Islamic countries, and especially the Arab governments, to mobilize all their forces and with trust in God the Exalted and reliance on His everlasting power come to the aid of the self-sacrificing men who are fighting on the front lines and are looking Optimistically to the Islamic nation for help. They should waste no time and join in this holy war to liberate Palestine and revive the glory, honor and greatness of Islam. They should refrain from destructive and weakening disagreements and discord, extend the hand of brotherhood to one another, close ranks and organize them. They should not be afraid of the frail power of the defenders of Zionism and Israel, nor deluded or subdued by the vain promises and idle threats of the great powers. They should avoid apathy and procrastination as this will lead to ignoble defeat and dangerous consequences.

The heads of the Islamic countries should be aware that this germ of corruption which has been planted in the heart of the Islamic countries has not been put there merely to suppress the Arab nation, rather it is dangerous and harmful to the Middle East region as a whole. The plan is for the domination and supremacy of Zionism over the Islamic world and the further colonization of the rich lands and abundant resources of the Islamic countries. Only through self-sacrifice, perseverance and the unity of the Muslim governments can freedom from the evil of this black incubus of colonialism be found. If one government fA. H. S to act as it should in this vital matter which now faces Islam, then it is incumbent upon the other Muslim governments to persuade it to co-operate through reproaches, threats and the severing of relations. It is the duty of the governments of Islamic oil-producing countries to use their oil and the other means they have at their disposal as weapons against Israel and the imperialists, and to refuse to sell their oil to governments supporting Israel.

Imam's message, 7 November 1973 (16 Aban 1352 AH. S). Sahifeh Noor, Vol. 1,p. 209.

The creation of military, communication and espionage bases for foreigners contravenes the Constitution. Giving foreigners and their vile agents, amongst them Israel, control of the best lands in the country and stopping the nation from using them constitute a breach of constitutional law and an act of treason against the country.

Imam's reply to a group of people Seeking advice about boycotting the Rastakhiz party, dated 12 March 1975 (21 Isfand 1353 AHS).