Africa

In recent months, while attention is focused on Iran’s proxies in the Middle East, Tehran is expanding its activities in Africa—increasing the threat to Israeli interests on the continent

Read the INSS Strategic Analysis for 2023

As part of the enhanced relations between Jerusalem and Rabat over the past two years, activity to preserve and cultivate Jewish heritage in Morocco has been stepped us. At the same time, Moroccans remain committed to the Palestinian cause, as was clearly evident at the World Cup in Qatar. How should Israel’s new government try to bridge gaps, so that the bilateral relations continue to improve?

The responses of African countries to the Hamas attack and the war in Gaza shed light on Israel’s strengths and weaknesses on the African continent. Analyzing the characteristics of their responses shows that it is both plausible and beneficial for Israel to strengthen its alliances with certain countries in Africa. Stepping up Israel’s diplomatic efforts on the continent in the short and long term could be useful in aiding security concerns (primarily around the Red Sea), preserving and extending the accomplishments of the Abraham Accords, and improving the balance of African votes at the UN in Israel’s favor.