In a meeting held yesterday (Wednesday) in Jerusalem, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar hosted Ethiopian Foreign Minister Dr. Gedeon Timothewos on his first official visit to Israel.
The discussions included a one-on-one session, followed by an expanded bilateral meeting focused on advancing diplomatic, security, and economic relations between the two countries.
“Part of a Broader Initiative to Strengthen Ties with African Nations”
At a press conference following the meeting, Sa’ar announced that he would soon visit Ethiopia as part of a broader initiative to reinforce Israel’s ties with African nations.
Shared Fight Against Terrorism
Sa’ar emphasized the shared threat of terrorism faced by both countries, noting that Ethiopia plays a crucial role in combating the Al-Shabaab terror group operating in the Horn of Africa.
He further stated that the Houthi threat extends beyond the Middle East, disrupting international trade routes, targeting Israeli ships in the Red Sea, and collaborating with other terrorist organizations in the region.
Israel and Ethiopia Committed to a Joint Fight Against Terror
“The Houthis pose a threat to Israel, Africa, and global stability,” Saar declared, reaffirming the commitment of both countries to combat radical Islamist terrorism, including Hamas, Hezbollah, jihadist groups in Syria, and Al-Shabaab in Africa.
The meeting marks a significant consolidation of Israel-Ethiopia relations, fostering broad strategic cooperation—another step in Israel’s diplomatic efforts to bolster alliances with African nations in the face of security and economic challenges in the region.
Minister of @mfaethiopia, Dr. Gedion Timothewos, met with his Israeli counterpart, @gidonsaar and discussed bilateral and multilateral issues of mutual interest. The ministers have agreed to strengthen the longstanding bilateral relations between the two countries. pic.twitter.com/SgZHpR0KtZ
— The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of #Ethiopia (@mfaethiopia) March 12, 2025
