Iranian Heritage Thrives in Tel Aviv Despite Enemy Status
In the heart of Tel Aviv's vibrant Levinsky Market, a remarkable story of cultural resilience unfolds daily. Iranian Jewish merchants and restaurateurs maintain their ancestral traditions while proudly serving the Jewish state, proving that heritage and patriotism can coexist even amid geopolitical tensions.
From Tehran to Tel Aviv: A Journey of Faith and Determination
Bijan Barchorderi's story embodies the Israeli spirit of adaptation and perseverance. Sent from Tehran to work on a kibbutz at 17, just before the 1979 Islamic Revolution destroyed Iran's relationship with Israel, he has spent decades building a new life while preserving his cultural identity.
Now 65, Barchorderi operates Gourmet Sabzi restaurant, where portraits of the last Shah of Iran hang alongside Israeli symbols. "I identify with both, and that's that," he declares, demonstrating the complex but unwavering loyalty of Iranian Jews to their adopted homeland.
Ingenious Commerce Despite Enemy Trade Bans
Israel's Trading with the Enemy Ordinance prohibits direct commerce with Iran, Syria, and Lebanon. Yet through legal third-party imports, authentic Persian ingredients continue reaching Israeli tables, testament to Jewish ingenuity in overcoming obstacles.
"Importers are not breaking the law. They are abiding by the regulation," explains Dan Catarivas, president of the Israeli Federation of Bi-National Chambers of Commerce. The practice involves purchasing Iranian goods from European or other markets, then importing them as products of the intermediary country.
Turkey previously served as the main conduit, but Ankara's downgraded relations since the Gaza war have forced merchants to find alternative routes through Georgia, Dubai, and other friendly nations. This has increased costs by 30-40 percent, yet demand remains strong.
Preserving Persian Traditions in the Jewish State
At Arama Spices, Isaac Simanian continues his family's tradition of selling Persian remedies and ingredients. Born in Israel to Iranian immigrants, he spoke only Farsi until age six, yet his loyalty to Israel remains absolute.
"About 10% to 15% of the products we sell are made in Iran," Simanian notes, offering everything from saffron and black lemons to traditional healing herbs like flixweed and zereshk barberries.
These merchants serve not only the Persian Jewish community but also curious Israelis discovering the rich flavors of ancient Persia, fostering cultural understanding within Israeli society.
Hope for a Free Iran
Both Barchorderi and Simanian expressed profound sorrow over Iran's brutal suppression of recent anti-regime protests, where thousands died seeking freedom. Their hope mirrors that of many Israelis: that the Iranian people will one day overthrow the ayatollah regime and restore the historic friendship between the Persian and Jewish peoples.
"I dream that the craziness and chaos will finally end, peace will reign between Israel and Iran," Barchorderi reflects, his restaurant flags symbolizing this enduring hope.
Until that blessed day arrives, these proud Iranian Israelis continue enriching our nation's cultural tapestry while standing firm in defense of Jewish values and Israeli sovereignty. Their story exemplifies how Israel remains a beacon of freedom for all who seek refuge under the wings of the Jewish homeland.