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Israel officially recognized the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent nation on Friday, marking a historic move that could alter regional power dynamics and challenge Somalia’s longstanding opposition to secession. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel aims to collaborate immediately with Somaliland in areas like agriculture, healthcare, technology, and economic development. He extended his congratulations to Somaliland’s President, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, praising his leadership and inviting him to visit Israel.
Netanyahu framed this recognition within the context of the Abraham Accords, which were signed at the initiative of President Trump. These agreements, brokered in 2020, led to formal diplomatic relations between Israel and countries like the UAE and Bahrain, with more nations joining later. The Israeli government also signed a joint declaration of mutual recognition with Somaliland, alongside President Abdullahi.
The Somaliland leader described their move as a step toward regional and global peace, emphasizing Somaliland’s commitment to building partnerships, fostering prosperity, and promoting stability across the Middle East and Africa. However, Somalia’s government condemned Israel’s action as unlawful, accusing it of deliberately violating Somalia’s sovereignty and reaffirming their commitment to defend their territorial integrity through diplomatic and legal means.
In response to Israel’s recognition, Egypt, Turkey, and Djibouti held discussions about the escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa. They condemned the move, supported Somalia’s unity, and warned that recognizing breakaway regions threatens regional and international peace and stability. The African Union also rejected Somaliland’s recognition, reaffirming its dedication to Somalia’s sovereignty and warning that such moves could undermine peace efforts across the continent.
Since gaining effective autonomy in 1991 amid Somalia’s civil war, Somaliland has maintained relative peace and stability but remains unrecognized by other nations. Somalia has consistently opposed countries recognizing Somaliland’s independence, arguing it undermines sovereignty. Somaliland hopes that this recognition by Israel might encourage other countries to follow suit, enhancing its diplomatic influence and access to international markets.
Earlier this year, both Somalia and Somaliland categorically rejected any proposals from the U.S. or Israel to resettle Palestinians from Gaza, asserting their opposition to such plans.
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