Israeli President Isaac Herzog is currently on a significant two-day official visit to Ethiopia, held on February 24 and 25. This visit marks what the Israeli presidency describes as a pivotal step in strengthening the cooperation between Israel and Ethiopia, and broadly, with the entire African continent. The discussions are likely centered on various forms of collaboration, including economic, technological, and security ties as Israel seeks to deepen its presence and influence in Africa.

The context of this visit is part of a larger trend where Israel has been actively seeking to enhance its diplomatic and strategic relationships across African nations. In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift, as Israel aims to develop partnerships that transcend traditional aid and foster mutual benefits. This includes talks of military access and mining opportunities, notably highlighted by a recent report on Somaliland's readiness to offer military bases and mining access to the United States following Israeli support. Such developments illustrate the changing geopolitics in the region.

Emmanuel Dupuy, a political scientist and president of the Institute for Prospective and Security in Europe, discusses the evolving relations between Israel and African states, emphasizing the significance of these partnerships amid global power shifts. As African nations assess their international alliances, Israel's proactive approach could redefine its role in Africa and enhance its security and economic interests on the continent. This visit by Herzog could potentially serve as a catalyst for further engagements and collaborations between Israel and various African countries.