Israel Reopens Embassy in Zambia Amidst Controversial Global Standing

In a significant diplomatic move, Israeli officials gathered in Lusaka, Zambia, in late August to celebrate the reopening of the Israeli embassy, marking the first time in over five decades that the Israeli flag has flown in the Zambian capital. This event comes at a time when Israel’s international reputation is under scrutiny, particularly due to its ongoing military actions in Gaza.

A Symbolic Return

Israeli Foreign Affairs Minister Gideon Saar, who led the ceremony, expressed optimism about Israel’s renewed presence in Africa. “Israel is returning to Zambia. Israel is returning to Africa,” he proclaimed on social media platform X. This reopening is seen as a strategic maneuver to strengthen ties with African nations while Israel faces increasing isolation globally due to its military operations in Gaza, which have drawn widespread condemnation.

The Israeli media has characterized Zambia as a potential “next great Africa frontier,” suggesting that the country could serve as a gateway for Israel to enhance its influence across the continent. Saar’s remarks at the ceremony indicated a broader ambition, stating, “Many countries in Africa are lining up for Israel to open an embassy in their capitals these days. We choose to begin in Zambia.”

Context of the Reopening

The reopening of the embassy is not merely a ceremonial act; it is part of a calculated strategy by Israel to forge alliances in Africa during a period of heightened scrutiny. The United Nations has labeled Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocidal, with reports indicating that over 66,000 Palestinians have lost their lives due to the conflict. Analysts suggest that strengthening ties with Zambia may be an attempt to undermine South Africa, Israel’s most vocal critic on the continent.

Faith Mabera, a researcher at the University of the Witwatersrand, noted that this move could be seen as part of a “divide and rule” strategy aimed at eroding regional support for South Africa within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Diplomatic Maneuvers in Africa

Just a week prior to the embassy reopening, Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel visited Nigeria, where she met with her counterpart. However, the meeting was not publicized on social media, reflecting Nigeria’s complex stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Nigeria has historically supported Palestinian rights, complicating Israel’s diplomatic efforts in the region.

Haskel’s subsequent visit to South Sudan, a country that has maintained a close relationship with Israel, included promises of aid amid ongoing internal conflict. However, her visit coincided with reports of discussions regarding the potential transfer of Palestinians from Gaza to South Sudan, a move that has been met with significant skepticism and denial from South Sudanese officials.

Historical Context of Africa-Israel Relations

Israel’s relationship with African nations has been tumultuous over the decades. In the 1950s and 1960s, Israel sought to position itself as an ally to newly independent African states, promoting a narrative of solidarity against colonialism. However, this relationship soured significantly after the 1973 Yom Kippur War, leading to a mass severance of diplomatic ties as many African nations viewed Israel as an aggressor.

Despite these historical challenges, Israel has made efforts to re-establish its presence in Africa, reopening embassies in several countries. However, its influence remains limited compared to that of global powers like China and Russia, which have been more successful in securing partnerships based on economic interests.

The Role of Palestine in African Diplomacy

The Palestinian issue remains a significant factor in shaping African nations’ foreign policies. South Africa, in particular, has been a staunch advocate for Palestinian rights, drawing parallels between its own history of apartheid and the situation in the occupied territories. Nelson Mandela’s famous assertion that “our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians” continues to resonate in South African politics.

While Israel has made inroads with some African nations, the overall sentiment on the continent remains largely pro-Palestinian. The African Union (AU) has consistently condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, and many African countries have voted against Israel in various international forums.

Israel’s Strategic Interests in East Africa

Israel has increasingly focused on East Africa, particularly Ethiopia, where a significant community of Ethiopian Jews resides. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s 2016 tour of East Africa aimed to strengthen ties with countries like Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. Israeli aid to these nations has primarily targeted agriculture, healthcare, and water management, although it pales in comparison to the support these countries receive from other global powers.

Despite receiving aid, countries like Ethiopia have not hesitated to vote against Israel at the UN, highlighting the complex dynamics at play. South Sudan remains one of the few nations that consistently supports Israel, a relationship rooted in historical military cooperation during South Sudan’s struggle for independence.

The Arms Trade and Security Partnerships

Israel’s engagement in Africa is not limited to diplomatic overtures; it has also established significant arms trade relationships with various African nations. Countries such as Cameroon, Nigeria, and South Africa have purchased military equipment from Israel, despite their public support for Palestine. This arms trade complicates the narrative of Israel as a pariah state and allows it to maintain influence in regions where it might otherwise face condemnation.

Analysts argue that by embedding itself in African security structures, Israel not only profits from instability but also cultivates partnerships that are less likely to challenge its actions in Palestine. This dynamic raises ethical questions about the nature of these relationships and their implications for regional stability.

Conclusion: A Complex Diplomatic Landscape

As Israel seeks to re-establish its presence in Africa, the reopening of its embassy in Zambia symbolizes both a return to diplomatic engagement and a strategic maneuver in a complex geopolitical landscape. While Israel may find new allies in countries like Zambia and South Sudan, the broader sentiment across Africa remains largely supportive of Palestinian rights.

The historical context of Africa-Israel relations, coupled with the ongoing conflict in Gaza, complicates Israel’s efforts to gain a foothold on the continent. As solidarity movements advocating for Palestine continue to grow, the future of Israel’s diplomatic ambitions in Africa remains uncertain. The interplay of historical grievances, geopolitical interests, and public sentiment will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of these relationships in the years to come.