This archive report was first published on 1 September 2019.
Published on September 1, 2019, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been seeking to boost security coordination with Ethiopia, a move that has significant implications for the region.
Netanyahu's efforts are part of a broader strategy to counter Iran's growing influence in Africa, particularly in the Horn of Africa region. In a statement, Netanyahu said, "We believe that we can offer some experience, some shared experience that we have garnered because of our unfortunate need to defend ourselves," when speaking with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
Netanyahu's visit to Ethiopia in 2016 marked the first time an Israeli head of government had visited the country, which is home to the African Union. The move was seen as a significant step in Israel's efforts to strengthen ties with African nations, particularly in the face of international criticism over its occupation of Palestinian territories.
According to Daniel Benaim, a former advisor to US President Barack Obama, Israel is seeking to deny Iran a foothold on the African side of the Red Sea from which it could transship weapons into Gaza and beyond. For its part, Ethiopia sees Israel as a potential security partner and source of investment and innovation.
With a population of over 100 million people, Ethiopia boasts the most dynamic economy in East Africa, despite being one of the poorest countries in the world. The country has a significant community of Israeli citizens with Ethiopian origins, with over 140,000 individuals holding dual citizenship.
These nationals have been at the forefront of efforts to address institutionalised racism and discrimination within Israeli society. The community has consistently complained of being victims of discrimination from law enforcement, with several high-profile cases of police brutality sparking widespread protests.
