Bat Yam Mayor Seeks Iranian Funds for Missile Strike Damages

Following a missile strike that devastated a neighborhood in Bat Yam, Mayor Zvika Brot has initiated a legal campaign against Iran, aiming to secure compensation from Iranian assets held in Israel. Brot revealed his plan in an interview with 103fm, stating that the goal is not merely a legal maneuver but to actually seize funds. The strategy involves targeting Iranian money that has been held in Israel for decades.

Brot explained that the legal challenge includes serving Iran with the lawsuit, a process complicated by the need for diplomatic channels and involvement from the Foreign Ministry, as the claim is against a state. He emphasized that the initiative is not for publicity, but a genuine effort to make Iran pay for the damages. The mayor believes there is a strong chance of success, framing the missile attack as an act of terror rather than a sovereign state action, which he argues would preclude Iran from suing Israel in response.

The funds in question stem from a past oil partnership between Israel and Iran during the Shah's era. Profits from this venture were held by Israel after the Iranian Revolution, as relations soured and Iran became an enemy state. Although an international arbitration ruling obligated Israel to return the money, full repayment was not made due to prohibitions on trade with enemy nations. These funds, estimated at at least $1.5 billion and held by the Ministry of Finance, are now the target of the lawsuit.

Other mayors have expressed interest in joining the legal action. Brot is confident that these funds can be realized through state channels and enforcement procedures.