Iran and Israel: From ‘Project Flower’ Collaboration to Missile Strikes

On October 1, Iran launched around 200 missiles targeting Israel’s strategic military and security infrastructures. While Iran and Israel are fierce adversaries today, there was a time when these two nations collaborated closely. In the 1970s, they worked together on a covert mission known as ‘Project Flower’ aimed at developing surface-to-surface missiles.

‘Project Flower’ was a multi-billion-dollar plan initiated during the reign of Iran’s Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The goal was to develop missile technology, potentially capable of carrying nuclear warheads. At that time, Israel and Iran shared a strategic partnership, where oil from Iran helped fuel Israel’s economy, while Israel provided military and technological expertise.

Iran-Israel Cooperation

In the 1970s, Iran relied on Israel’s advanced technological know-how to modernize its military. Israel, facing an Arab oil embargo, needed Iranian oil to sustain its economy and military operations. This mutually beneficial relationship led to the signing of several oil-for-arms agreements, with ‘Project Flower’ being one of the most significant.

Israel also played a key role in training Iran’s secret police, SAVAK, with support from the American CIA and Israeli Mossad. According to an Israeli defense official, the cooperation with Iran enabled Israel to develop advanced weaponry crucial for its defense.

Key Features of Project Flower

In 1977, the two nations agreed to jointly develop surface-to-surface missiles capable of being fitted with nuclear warheads. However, Israel later chose to focus on enhancing conventional missile capabilities, as nuclear technology in Iran posed potential risks.

End of Project Flower After the 1979 Islamic Revolution

The collaboration came to a halt in 1979 after the Islamic Revolution overthrew the Shah’s regime. The new Iranian government, led by Ayatollah Khomeini, immediately cut off all military ties with Israel. As a result, ‘Project Flower’ was abandoned, and the two nations turned from strategic partners into hostile enemies.

Though the project ended abruptly, ‘Project Flower’ remains a crucial chapter in the complex relationship between Iran and Israel, one that has since devolved into animosity and conflict.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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