IsraelCast Episode 181

While Western leaders have near-universally backed Israel in the wake of Hamas’ horrific attacks, a shocking number of people have expressed support for Hamas, levelling the same false accusations against Israel they usually do. One thing often said is that Israel is an “Apartheid State” and will compare Israel’s requirement for self-defense to South Africa. Host Steven Shalowitz sits down with South African activist Olga Meshoe Washington to discuss her journey to becoming an advocate for the State of Israel, the history of Africa’s relationship with Israel and Jews, and why calling Israel apartheid is a ridiculous accusation that trivializes her people’s history.

Olga Meshoe Washington is the CEO of Defend Embrace Invest (in) Support Israel (DEISI). Olga’s unique narrative on South African and African relations with Israel, the Christian mandate to stand with Israel, and her engaging delivery have contributed to her being a regular on the speakers’ circuit in Africa and the U.S. In 2016 she received the Jerusalem Award from the World Zionist Organization, in recognition of her advocacy for the State of Israel and the South African Jewish Community. She was also one of The Jerusalem Post’s “25 Young ViZionaries” in 2023.