Israeli President Isaac Herzog met in Jerusalem on Monday with a delegation of imams and Muslim leaders from across Africa, in the latest Israeli diplomatic outreach to the continent.
“I believe the future of this region is rooted in Jews and Muslims speaking to one another, building mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation — as we have seen in the Abraham Accords,” Herzog wrote on X. “We must work to expand this circle of peace in an era of brainwashing and spreading hatred.”
It was a pleasure today to welcome to Jerusalem, a special delegation of Imams and Muslim leaders from across Africa.
I believe the future of this region is rooted in Jews and Muslims speaking to one another, building mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation – as we have… pic.twitter.com/twsp2H5k9v
— יצחק הרצוג Isaac Herzog (@Isaac_Herzog) December 1, 2025
The interfaith meeting highlighted anew the growing diplomatic tug of war between supporters and opponents of the Jewish state in Africa. While South Africa has emerged as one of the fiercest critics of Israel worldwide, other African countries have pushed back and are now further strengthening ties rooted in a mix of shared interests and faith.
“Their visit here, to see the true face of Israel, to see how Israel is doing so much good in the world, including in Africa, sends a strong message of friendship and peace,” the Israeli president said. “I believe Africa should be a bridge of peace in our region.”
The meeting at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem came the very same day that Israel’s foreign minister was hosting a visiting African king, who leads an ethnic group based in South Africa.