Relations between Israel and Africa between 1958 and 1973: a complex legacy to decipher
Relations between Israel and Africa between 1958 and 1973 were marked by close cooperation and mutual solidarity. Under the leadership of Golda Meir, Minister of Foreign Affairs and then Prime Minister, Israel provided support to newly independent African countries by providing them with technical assistance and training thousands of young Africans in different fields.
These relationships were based on a common understanding of the challenges of rapid development and a shared history of suffering. Golda Meir also underlined the importance of this solidarity by quoting the words of Theodor Herzl who expressed the desire to see the redemption of Africans after that of the Jews.
However, with the ongoing tragic events between Israel and the Gaza Strip, relations between Africa and Israel have become more complex and difficult to decipher. It is now unclear whether African governments support Israel, while African people instead identify with the Palestinian people.
This situation demonstrates the multitude of nuances that must be taken into account to avoid oversimplifying. Some support for the Palestinian cause in Africa is based on religious considerations, with some Muslims feeling solidarity with the predominantly Muslim Palestinians. Other support is motivated by a reaction to the injustices suffered by the Palestinian people or by opposition to the violent actions of Hamas. There is even support for Palestine simply in reaction to US and Western support for Israel.
It is also important not to confuse people and their leaders in this debate. African governments that side with the Palestinians or Israel sometimes do so for self-serving motivations, such as the search for security or recognition of the belly.
It is undeniable that relations between Israel and Africa between 1958 and 1973 were marked by mutual respect and goodwill. However, it is important to recognize that current events have complicated these relationships and made their assessment difficult. It remains to be hoped that the two parties can find peaceful common ground to preserve the legacy of this past collaboration and build a better future for all.