Senegalese Coalition for the Palestinian Cause raises alarm over Israeli pressure on Dakar and Sahel engagement
via SeneNews6 min read
The Senegalese Coalition for the Palestinian Cause has issued a warning regarding what it describes as Israeli maneuvers targeting Dakar. In a statement, the organization condemned pressure from Israel to alter Senegal's historical stance in favor of Palestine, linking it to diplomatic initiatives in the region. The Coalition highlighted a "concerted diplomatic strategy" by Israel in West Africa, noting simultaneous diplomatic efforts with Sahelian countries and pressure on Senegal to reconsider its position. This analysis is based on two recent developments: diplomatic rapprochement between Israel and several Sahelian states, including a meeting between Burkina Faso's President Ibrahim Traoré and Israel's Ambassador to Côte d'Ivoire, Simon Seroussi, who is also accredited to Burkina Faso, Benin, and Togo. The statement also mentioned discreet discussions between Mali and Tel Aviv, supported by the United Arab Emirates and Morocco. The second development cited is a recent statement by Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Askel, who urged Senegal to translate its "historic commitment" to Palestine into "concrete initiatives" towards Israel, including appointing an accredited ambassador to Israel and organizing official visits. The Coalition views these developments as part of a strategy by Israel to strengthen its presence in Sahelian countries through security cooperation while attempting to shift Senegal's traditional stance on the Palestinian issue. The organization beli
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Hemodialysis patients in Ziguinchor have highlighted the challenges they face, including high treatment costs, blood shortages, and insufficient infrastructure. Their concerns were raised during a blood donation, awareness, and chronic kidney disease screening day organized by the Senegalese Association of Hemodialysis and Kidney Failure Patients at the Ziguinchor Regional Hospital Center. Dr. Mamadou A. Bâ, a nephrologist at the hospital, noted that chronic kidney disease is a significant public health challenge, causing high mortality and requiring expensive care. He stated that at least fifteen patients are seen daily, including new cases, emphasizing that early screening is crucial for detecting this often silent disease. Dieynaba Diédhiou, president of the local branch of the Association of Hemodialysis Patients, described the patients' reality as difficult, with transport costs, medication, and medical tests becoming unbearable for many families. She called for a larger hemodialysis unit to meet the growing needs of patients in the region. Massaër Seck, secretary general of the Senegalese Association of Hemodialysis and Kidney Failure Patients, echoed these concerns, acknowledging existing efforts but stressing that more support is needed, particularly regarding the high cost of medical tests. He emphasized that hemodialysis patients can live long lives with appropriate medical and social support.
Kylian Mbappé scored a decisive goal against Sweden in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16, making him the second-highest goal scorer in World Cup history with 17 goals. This achievement highlights the French player's importance to the French national team. His goal in the 40th minute gave France a 1-0 lead. With his 17th World Cup goal, Mbappé has surpassed Germany's Miroslav Klose. The French captain now holds the second position in the ranking of all-time World Cup top scorers, trailing only Lionel Messi, who has 18 goals.
Must ReadSenegal's Sadio Mané and Belgium's Jérémy Doku, key players for their national teams, have not yet delivered their best performances at the 2026 World Cup and are expected to improve before their round of 16 match in Seattle on Wednesday. Doku, a 24-year-old Manchester City forward, was anticipated to shine for Belgium after a strong Premier League season. However, he played a subdued match against Egypt due to a respiratory infection and missed the game against Iran to be with his wife for the birth of their son in London. This trip caused controversy as Norwegian defender Leo Ostigard remained with his team and watched his wife's childbirth via FaceTime. Doku started against New Zealand but was substituted at the hour mark. The Belgian press hopes he will perform better against Senegal now that his health issues are resolved. Sadio Mané, ten years Doku's senior, is playing in his final major international tournament with the Lions of Terranga. The former Liverpool forward, now with Al-Nassr, started all three group matches but did not score, though he provided an assist against Norway. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw expressed full confidence in Mané, calling him an "extraordinary" and "technical leader" who contributes defensively and is an "example for African and world football." Senegal may be without goalkeeper Edouard Mendy due to injury, with Mory Diaw replacing him. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly's performance will also be scrutinized after errors in the match against Norway. F