Israeli Ambassador Expelled from Rwandan Genocide Conference in Addis Ababa

Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia, Avraham Neguise, was expelled from a genocide conference due to member states’ refusal to participate alongside him. The Israeli Foreign Ministry criticized comments made by the African Union Commission chairperson. This incident occurs amid renewed violence in Gaza and ongoing international legal challenges against Israeli leaders.

Avraham Neguise, Israel’s ambassador to Ethiopia, was expelled from a conference focused on the Rwandan genocide, which took place in Addis Ababa on Monday. The expulsion occurred after other member states expressed their refusal to participate alongside him. This incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding diplomatic relations and the treatment of Israel at international forums.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry condemned remarks made by Mahmoud Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, during the conference. The ministry described his comments as inappropriate, stating, “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 rejoined the African Union as an observer member in July 2021, and Avraham Neguise has served in his ambassadorial role since August 2024. Prior to this, an Israeli diplomat faced expulsion during the 36th African Union summit in February 2023, indicating a pattern of diplomatic challenges for Israel within the organization.

The context of this incident intertwines with the escalating conflict in Gaza, which has seen significant casualties, with the Israeli military escalating its operations. Reports indicate that over 50,700 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023, prompting international scrutiny and legal actions. The International Criminal Court has issued warrants related to war crimes against Israeli leaders, and a genocide case has been presented to the International Court of Justice regarding events in Gaza.

The expulsion of Israeli Ambassador Avraham Neguise from the Rwandan genocide conference illustrates the complexities and challenges faced by Israel in diplomatic engagements, particularly within African forums. The Israeli Foreign Ministry’s condemnation of remarks made by the African Union Commission chairperson underlines ongoing tensions regarding Israel’s international relations, especially amidst the backdrop of heightened violence in Gaza and legal challenges at international courts.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr