Amid escalating tensions in East Africa and the Middle East, Rwanda and Israel have reaffirmed their strategic alliance, highlighting the importance of diplomatic partnerships in countering shared security threats.
The recent engagement between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, and his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar, comes at a crucial time when both nations face external pressures from hostile actors, including South Africa’s increasingly aggressive stance.
This conversation took place shortly after South Africa issued direct threats against Rwanda while reinforcing its support for DRC President Félix Tshisekedi’s repressive regime. Tshisekedi’s administration has been targeting Tutsis in the DRC and backing the FDLR militia, a group responsible for the genocide against the Tutsi and perpetuating violence and instability in the Great Lakes region. Given Israel’s own experience with hostile neighbors and international condemnation, its growing alliance with Rwanda is a logical response to mutual security concerns.
According to Minister Nduhungirehe, the discussion with his Israeli counterpart was an opportunity to exchange views on regional security and cooperation. He provided insights into the root causes of instability in the Great Lakes region, particularly the ongoing threats posed by the FDLR militia. He also outlined Rwanda’s vision for achieving lasting peace despite escalating tensions.
Minister Sa’ar reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to strengthening ties with Rwanda and acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue. “I spoke with Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Nduhungirehe. We discussed the extensive cooperation between our nations, and I briefed him on issues in the Middle East. I expressed our support for the continuation of dialogue that will bring peace to the Great Lakes region,” Minister Sa’ar stated.
A Strategic Partnership Amid Geopolitical Tensions
Rwanda and Israel have cultivated a strong partnership over the years, rooted in cooperation in defense, technology, agriculture, and trade. Their diplomatic engagement comes as both countries face external geopolitical challenges and international scrutiny.
South Africa’s recent decision to file a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing it of genocide in Gaza, has further heightened global tensions. Notably, South Africa has also been one of Rwanda’s most vocal critics, frequently opposing its policies within regional and international forums. This shared experience of diplomatic hostility has naturally aligned Rwanda and Israel in their pursuit of mutual security and development.
South Africa has increasingly positioned itself as a disruptive actor in African and global diplomacy. After the era of Nelson Mandela, the African National Congress (ANC) has been infiltrated by corrupt elements, many of whom were part of the forces against the apartheid regime. Under their leadership, South Africa has descended into political instability, economic decline, and rising crime. Its foreign policy has grown increasingly antagonistic, particularly toward fellow African nations, as seen in its recent threats against Rwanda.
Moreover, South Africa has fostered a culture of xenophobia, with violent attacks on foreign nationals—particularly other Africans—becoming disturbingly frequent. The government’s failure to address these issues has exacerbated diplomatic tensions with neighboring countries. This broader pattern of hostility and mismanagement has led to South Africa’s diplomatic isolation in many instances.
In contrast, Rwanda has positioned itself as a beacon of stability, economic growth, and constructive diplomacy. Through strategic partnerships with nations like Israel, Rwanda continues to strengthen its global standing while countering threats posed by destabilizing actors in the region.
Israel has played a critical role in supporting Rwanda’s development, particularly in security cooperation and intelligence-sharing. Given the volatile security situation in the Great Lakes region, Rwanda benefits from Israel’s expertise in counterterrorism and defense strategies. Moreover, Rwanda has emerged as one of Israel’s most reliable allies in Africa, consistently backing Israel’s diplomatic initiatives within the African Union.
At the same time, Rwanda remains committed to advocating for peace and stability in its neighborhood, particularly in addressing security threats posed by armed groups in eastern DRC. The support of strategic partners like Israel enhances Rwanda’s ability to navigate these complex challenges while reinforcing its diplomatic leverage on the global stage.
As both nations deepen their cooperation, their shared commitment to security, peace, and economic development remains a driving force in their enduring partnership. The latest high-level discussions between their foreign ministers serve as a testament to the strength of this alliance in the face of regional and global adversities.
