What it is about
More than 40 lawmakers from over 20 African countries signed a resolution on Wednesday affirming that Jerusalem is the legitimate, undivided, and eternal capital of Israel. The resolution also condemns anti-Zionism as a form of antisemitism and denounces violence against Israel, specifically by Hamas and Iranian-backed groups.
Why it matters
This endorsement underscores growing support for Israel from African nations, highlighting shared values and potential economic mutual benefits. It aligns Africa’s vision for collaboration with Israel’s innovative edge, driving forward developmental, diplomatic, and security interests.
Supporting Arguments
Recognition of Capital
The resolution prominently declares, “We affirm Jerusalem as the legitimate, undivided, and eternal capital of the State of Israel,” adding a significant political message that challenges opposing legal actions by the African Union and other international entities.
Historical and Religious Ties
This statement supports respecting the historical, legal, cultural, and religious bonds of the Jewish people to Jerusalem and areas like the Judea and Samaria regions of the West Bank. Emphasizing these connections solidifies the legitimacy of Jewish historical claims.
Enhanced Relations
The meeting also called for stronger diplomatic and economic ties between Africa and Israel. By leveraging Israel’s “startup nation” innovations, such connections promise economic growth and workforce desarrollo in Africa, benefiting both parties on a strategic level.
Combatting Radicalism
Numerous delegates underscored the necessity of strength through unity against extremism. Proposals for initiatives like the “Queen of Sheba Accords” aim to promote comprehensive cooperation and security protocols designed to curb and eventually eliminate radical ideologies.
The Summit’s Outcome
Organized by various pro-Israel gestures including the Israel Allies Foundation, the summit emphasized geographic, historical, and cultural synergies. Lawmakers expressed their alignment via shared colonial histories and mutual aspirations for sovereignty and innovation-led development.
Statements from Leaders
Strategic Alliances
“It is strategic for Uganda to relate to Israel,” stated Hon. Achan Judith Peace. Addressing proactive measures to curb extremism, attendees proposed uniting to exert pressure against negative political and judicial perspectives targeting Israel in international forums.
Faith-Based Diplomacy
MK Sharren Haskel highlighted, “Only with a strong alliance will we be able to defeat evil,” advocating for a comprehensive ideological and geopolitical solidarity front.
The Path Ahead
This geopolitical and supportive momentum for Israel from Africa points towards broader multilateral cooperations, as advocated by influential summit voices aimed at rectifying moral and ethical optics against Israel. Alignment with economic and defense interests promises multipronged advances, signifying strong-trusted partnerships ahead.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.