Could Ethiopia become a key player in Israel’s ambitious ‘hexagon’ alliance, a strategic move aimed at countering its adversaries? This question is more pressing than ever, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently proposed a network of allied nations spanning the Middle East and Africa to confront what he labels as “radical” threats. Just days after this announcement, Israeli President Isaac Herzog embarked on an official visit to Ethiopia, a nation with deep historical ties to Israel and a pivotal player in the region. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Will Ethiopia join this alliance, and what does this mean for the geopolitical landscape?
Netanyahu’s envisioned ‘hexagon of alliances’—which includes Israel, India, Greece, Cyprus, and potentially other nations—aims to counter enemies like Iran and its allied groups, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. However, this is the part most people miss: analysts are skeptical about Israel’s ability to secure enough influence to formalize such a pact. Despite this, Israel is doubling down on its charm offensive in Africa, particularly after its reputation took a hit during the Gaza conflict, with the African Union (AU) repeatedly condemning Israeli actions against Palestinian civilians.
Herzog’s visit to Ethiopia—the first presidential trip since 2018—was steeped in diplomatic overtures. He emphasized the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations, stating, ‘The relationship between our peoples is woven deep into the pages of history and human tradition.’ Yet, beneath the surface, this visit is part of a larger battle for influence in Addis Ababa, which has recently hosted high-level delegations from Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Is Ethiopia being pulled into a geopolitical tug-of-war?
Ethiopia and Israel share a unique bond, rooted in the Beta Israel community, or Ethiopian Jews, who migrated to Israel under its Law of Return policy. Between the late 1970s and mid-1990s, tens of thousands of Ethiopian Jews were covertly transported to Israel, even as many African nations, including Ethiopia, had severed ties with Israel over the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Today, about 160,000 Ethiopian Jews live in Israel, though many face integration challenges and allegations of discrimination.
Despite these domestic issues, Ethiopia-Israel relations remain robust. In 2016, Ethiopia became one of the first African nations to support Israel’s bid for observer status at the AU, though this status was later suspended in 2023. Israel’s aid agency, Mashav, has also provided significant assistance to Ethiopia through agriculture and water projects, though China remains a more substantial donor.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland—a region claimed by Somalia—as an independent state has sparked debate. Analysts suggest this move is part of Israel’s strategy to counter Iranian influence in the region, particularly after reports of collaboration between Somalia’s al-Shabab and Yemen’s Houthis. However, this decision has been met with resistance from several countries and the AU, which view it as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty. Is Israel’s recognition of Somaliland a bold strategic move or a risky gamble?
Ethiopia’s position is particularly delicate. In 2024, it signed a controversial port deal with Somaliland, reportedly in exchange for future recognition, a move that infuriated Somalia and raised fears of armed conflict. While Ethiopia seeks sea access—critical for its landlocked economy—it must navigate increasing regional isolation, exacerbated by tensions over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and strained relations with Eritrea.
And this is the part most people miss: Israel is likely pushing Ethiopia to recognize Somaliland, which boasts a strategic 850km coastline. However, Addis Ababa may be hesitant to act, given its precarious regional standing and pressure from countries like Turkey and Saudi Arabia, which oppose Israel’s move. Turkey’s President Erdogan recently criticized Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, calling it detrimental to regional stability, while Saudi Arabia has also sought to influence Ethiopia’s stance.
As the geopolitical chessboard shifts, the question remains: Will Ethiopia align with Israel’s hexagon alliance, and at what cost? This decision could reshape alliances in the Horn of Africa and beyond. What do you think? Is Israel’s strategy a necessary counter to regional threats, or does it risk destabilizing an already volatile region? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
