A bold new alliance is brewing, and it could shake up the geopolitical landscape. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has proposed an ambitious plan to unite nations against what he calls 'radical' adversaries, and the key to this strategy might just be Ethiopia. But here's where it gets controversial: can Israel's charm offensive in Africa secure enough influence to form a powerful alliance?
Netanyahu's vision, a 'hexagon of alliances', includes Israel, India, Greece, Cyprus, and potentially other countries, aiming to counter enemies in the Middle East, primarily Iran and its resistance groups. While the specifics are still unclear, analysts question whether Israel can pull off a formal security pact.
However, Israel is not giving up. It's deepening its efforts in Africa, a region where its reputation has taken a hit due to the Gaza genocide and African Union condemnations of Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians.
Enter Ethiopian President Isaac Herzog, who recently visited Ethiopia, a rare occurrence. His arrival marked a significant step in Israel's ongoing charm offensive. Herzog emphasized the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations, highlighting their shared ability to innovate and grow together.
But beneath the surface, there's a battle for influence. Ethiopia has received similar high-level visits from Turkiye and Saudi Arabia, creating a complex web of alliances and rivalries.
Ethiopia and Israel share a unique bond. From their shared histories to their recent political moves in the Horn of Africa, they've faced scrutiny and anger from influential regional nations. The Beta Israel community, Ethiopian Jews, have played a significant role in maintaining friendly ties between the two countries.
Despite challenges within the community, including discrimination and racism, state relations between Ethiopia and Israel have remained steady. Israel's aid agency, Mashav, has provided agricultural and water cooperation projects, and both countries support Somaliland, a region critical to Israel's national security.
The recognition of Somaliland by Israel has sparked controversy. While many in Somaliland celebrated, several countries and the African Union pushed back, calling it a violation of Somalia's sovereignty.
Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is under pressure. Neither Israel nor Ethiopia has revealed the agenda for Herzog's visit, but Somaliland is likely a top priority. The controversial port deal with Hargeisa, which granted Ethiopia access to the sea, has enraged Ethiopia's neighbors, and the country faces increasing regional isolation.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, a source of national pride, has caused tensions with Egypt and Sudan over water supply. Additionally, Ethiopia's tensions with Eritrea, which has moved closer to Somalia and Egypt, add to the complex regional dynamics.
"Addis Ababa is cautious of making a decision that will further isolate them," analyst Moustafa Ahmad said.
The pressure is on from various fronts, with countries like Turkiye and Saudi Arabia intervening. Turkey's President Erdogan criticized Israel's recognition of Somaliland, while Saudi Arabia, entangled in its own rift with the UAE over Yemen, has also stepped in.
The outcome of these diplomatic maneuvers remains uncertain. Will Ethiopia join Israel's alliance, or will it resist the pressure? The future of this potential partnership is a fascinating and complex story, and we invite you to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.
