https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-704249
South Africa’s continued boycott of Israel has prevented some of Israel’s growing relationships in Africa. Israel has grown in its relations with African countries, with many more giving recognition to the state, but South Africa still refuses to recognize the state. The African Union (AU) has been split on giving Israel observer status, and South Africa is one of the countries against it.
This has long lasting effects on not just South Africa and Israel’s relationship, but on all of Africa regardless of their position on Israel. The AU is split on giving observer status to Israel which is important for Israel so they can be backed and allied with the rest of Africa. Israel has many enemies and lots of support or hatred towards them, so being allied with the AU helps to lower tensions and back them from their foreign threats.
This article relates to state recognition. Israel is not a recognized state by South Africa, as well as many other countries within Africa and globally. The reason South Africa boycotts Israel is because they do not recognize them, and do not support the decision to join the AU. Another reason is the religious difference. South Africa is a mainly christian country, while Israel is a jewish state, which in Africa causes conflict and debate between nations.