Israel Envoy Expelled at AU Summit -

AU expels Israeli ambassador in Addis Ababa amid backlash over Tel Aviv’s observer status, prompting investigation and global tensions.

Israeli Envoy Ejected from AU Summit in Addis Ababa

The African Union Summit in Addis Ababa erupted into controversy on Monday, April 7, after Israel’s ambassador to Ethiopia, Avraham Neguise, was expelled from the opening session—a stark reminder of the unresolved rift over Israel’s contested observer status at the continental body.

The incident occurred during the AU’s commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, a solemn event marking 31 years since the atrocity. According to reports, multiple African delegations objected to Neguise’s presence in Nelson Mandela Hall, prompting a pause in proceedings until he was escorted out.

“This type of undiplomatic and aggressive behavior is unacceptable,” Israel’s Foreign Ministry said. “It is a stain on the values the Union claims to uphold.”

The Ministry further described the incident as a “political ambush” orchestrated by member states with “anti-Israel positions driven by external influence.”

AU Responds with Internal Investigation

The African Union Commission responded swiftly, announcing a probe into how the Israeli diplomat gained access to the high-level event.

“The Commission was not responsible for issuing the credential,” said AU spokesperson Ebba Kalondo, confirming an internal review is underway.

AU Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat, who controversially admitted Israel as an observer in 2021, issued a measured response. He called for continued dialogue among member states and reaffirmed the Union’s historic support for Palestinian self-determination.

“Africa’s solidarity with oppressed peoples, including Palestinians, remains unshaken,” said Mahamat.

Djibouti’s Role and the Arab League Link

The expulsion has spotlighted Djibouti’s Ambassador Mohamed Ali Youssouf, a seasoned diplomat within the AU who also held top roles in the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

Youssouf’s background and previous advocacy for the Palestinian cause fueled speculation that he played a behind-the-scenes role in galvanizing objections.

“There was no consensus on Israel’s presence, which is why it remains a sensitive issue,” said one AU insider familiar with internal deliberations.

Symbolism and Struggle for African Allegiance

Despite having bilateral ties with over 40 African countries and expanding investments in agriculture, tech, and security, Israel’s multilateral ambitions at the AU remain blocked. The 2025 expulsion mirrors a similar 2023 episode, when another Israeli diplomat was denied access to an AU summit.

“This isn’t just about credentials—it’s a symbolic battle for Africa’s allegiance,” said Dr. Halima Mahamat, a Dakar-based geopolitical analyst.

The AU first granted observer status to the PLO in 1973, embedding pro-Palestine sentiment deep in its diplomatic DNA. In 2022, countries including Algeria, South Africa, and Nigeria led calls to rescind Israel’s observer status, citing violations of AU principles on decolonization.

Israel Faces Broader Diplomatic Headwinds

The timing adds to political pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, already facing backlash over his hardline Gaza policies and judicial reforms. Monday’s ejection could further isolate Israel in multilateral spaces, especially across the Global South.

“It’s more than a PR blow—it’s a sign of Israel’s diminishing goodwill in Africa,” said Yael Litvak of the Middle East Policy Forum.

Despite growing trade and security ties, analysts say the AU incident reflects a deeper values clash between Israel and several African states.