Israeli ambassador Avraham Neguise was expelled from a Rwandan genocide conference in Ethiopia after member states refused to attend alongside him. The Israeli Foreign Ministry condemned remarks made by the Chairperson of the African Union. The incident coincides with the ongoing military actions in Gaza and the challenges Israel faces from international legal bodies regarding war crimes allegations.
On a recent occasion, Avraham Neguise, the Israeli ambassador to Ethiopia, was expelled from a conference concerning the Rwandan genocide, hosted by the African Union in Addis Ababa. This decision followed the refusal of several member states to attend the event alongside him, as confirmed by a statement from the Israeli Foreign Ministry.
The ministry expressed its discontent regarding remarks made by Mahmoud Youssouf, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission. It stated, “It is outrageous that at an event commemorating the victims of the Tutsi genocide in Rwanda, to which the Israeli ambassador in Addis Ababa was invited, [Youssouf] chose to introduce anti-Israel political elements.”
Israel reinstated its observer status within the African Union in July 2021. Ambassador Neguise, who has served in this position since August 2024, is also a former member of the ruling Likud Party. Notably, a similar incident occurred in February 2023 when another Israeli diplomat was expelled from the African Union summit held in Addis Ababa.
This incident is set against the backdrop of escalating tensions due to Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in substantial casualties and raised international concerns. To date, over 1,400 individuals have been reported killed, with thousands more injured since an offensive renewal in March 2023. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for high-ranking Israeli officials regarding war crimes related to the Gaza conflict.
Additionally, Israel is under scrutiny at the International Court of Justice, facing allegations of genocide for actions taken in the Gaza Strip during the ongoing conflict.
In summary, the expulsion of Israeli ambassador Avraham Neguise from the Rwanda genocide conference highlights rising tensions between Israel and certain African nations, driven by ongoing issues in the Gaza conflict and broader regional sentiments. This incident has raised questions about diplomatic relations and the complexities involved in commemorating historical atrocities. The Israeli Foreign Ministry’s response reflects its concern over international perceptions and actions directed against its representatives. The situation remains delicate, especially amid ongoing military operations and international legal challenges that Israel currently faces.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
