Israel in Africa, 1956-1976

About this book

During the decade following its independence, Israel concentrated efforts upon the United States, Britain, France and the Soviet Union, hoping to purchase arms, obtain economic assistance and receive large-scale immigration. In 1957 Israel maintained only seven embassies, six in Europe and North America. Yet by 1963 Israel had 22 embassies in Africa, creating ties that for another decade withstood Arab influence, the impact of the Cold War and heightened African nationalism. At its zenith Israel conducted relations with 33 Black African states. How did this come about? Zach Levey presents the first archive-based analysis of Israel's strategy on the continent, from entry in the mid-1950s to the break in 1973, and examines Israeli diplomacy in the aftermath of that rupture. -- Publisher.