Addis Ababa (WDN) — A decision by Ethiopia to oppose a resolution condemning Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories has triggered backlash and public anger within the country, according to Al Jazeera.

The resolution, which was presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council at the end of March, saw Ethiopia vote “no”—a move that sharply departs from the country’s previous diplomatic stance on issues related to Palestine.

At the same time, the decision comes as Ethiopia strengthens its ties and cooperation with Israel, particularly in the areas of security and regional politics in the Horn of Africa.

Analysts and many Ethiopians have characterized the decision as a significant shift in the country’s foreign policy, arguing that it undermines Ethiopia’s longstanding stance against apartheid particularly given Addis Ababa’s role as the seat of the African Union.

Sources indicate that the two countries share strategic interests in the region, although the move has raised questions about the new direction of Ethiopia’s foreign policy and its potential impact on international relations.

The decision continues to be widely debated both within Ethiopia and across the region, as observers await how the government in Addis Ababa will respond to the growing criticism and pressure.

WardheerNews