Africa’s Stance on the Israel-Hamas Conflict: A Continental Perspective

Mohanasakthivel J
Mohanasakthivel J is a Research Analyst with the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA), New Delhi. His area of research includes Foreign Policy Analysis, International law, Regional… Continue reading Africa’s Stance on the Israel-Hamas Conflict: A Continental Perspective read more
Commentary

Israel-Hamas conflict escalated significantly with Hamas launching an offensive against Israel, causing over 1300 deaths and a severe hostage crisis. This marked a major intensification in the longstanding conflict. The African Union attributed the violence to Israel’s denial of Palestinian rights, while African nations responded variably. Some aligned with Israel, others with Palestine, and several remained neutral. Diplomatic relations with Israel, influenced by historical and developmental ties, were evident in the varied UN voting patterns. Israel’s extensive developmental aid and covert influence in Africa have shaped its role on the continent, amidst recent shifts like the Abraham Accords.

Keywords: Africa, Hamas, Israel-Palestine Relations