ABSTRACT

In the aftermath of the Yom Kippur War, all the black African countries broke off diplomatic relations with Israel. Among the countries that took this action were Ethiopia, Kenya, Liberia (highly pro-western states), and Nigeria, which for many years after its independence walked a ‘tightrope’ policy for nonpartisanship in the Middle-Eastern situation. What was responsible for this dramatic set-back for Israel, a country that was highly regarded by some African states and peoples for its achievements in nation-building, economic development, and modest but effective agricultural and military aid? Is the damage to AfricanIsraeli relations temporary or permanent? What is the future of that relationship?