Israel's quiet Africa play: New Ambassador to Burkina Faso

While France severs diplomatic ties with Burkina Faso and Western nations distance themselves from Ouagadougou's military junta, Israel is quietly moving in the opposite direction.

Israel's new ambassador Simon Seroussi has presented his credentials to junta leader Ibrahim Traoré, signalling Jerusalem's intent to maintain and develop its relationship with Burkina Faso regardless of the country's deteriorating ties with the West.

The timing is notable. Burkina Faso's Communications Minister Gilbert Ouédraogo announced last week the rupture of diplomatic relations with France, accusing Paris of supporting "subversive networks" and « terrorists », charges France has categorically denied. The move was the latest in a series of ruptures between Ouagadougou and its former Western partners since the 2022 coup that brought Traoré to power.

Israel, however, has no interest in joining that queue. Ambassador Seroussi, who is based in Abidjan and also represents Israel in Togo and Côte d'Ivoire, covers a strategic West African brief for Jerusalem, and his credentials presentation in Ouagadougou sends a clear diplomatic signal: Israel does not follow the Western playbook on Africa.

For a continent increasingly rejecting French influence and exploring new partnerships, with Russia, Turkey, China and Gulf states, Israel’s pragmatic, non-judgmental engagement represents a distinct diplomatic approach. One that is quietly opening doors across the Sahel, even as others are slamming them shut.