Israel became the first country to formally recognize the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state on Friday. The decision is expected to affect regional dynamics and test Somalia’s opposition to Somaliland’s secession.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology, and economic development. He congratulated Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, praised his leadership, and invited him to visit Israel.
Netanyahu described the recognition as aligned with the spirit of the Abraham Accords. The 2020 accords, brokered during former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, had established diplomatic ties between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. Other countries joined the agreements later.
A joint declaration of mutual recognition was signed by Netanyahu, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, and Somaliland’s president. Abdullahi welcomed Israel’s move, stating Somaliland would join the Abraham Accords and commit to building partnerships, enhancing economic prosperity, and promoting stability across the Middle East and Africa.
Somalia and Regional Reaction
Somalia condemned Israel’s decision, describing it as an “unlawful step” and a “deliberate attack” on its sovereignty. The Somali government affirmed it would pursue diplomatic, political, and legal measures to defend its internationally recognized borders.
Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held talks with counterparts in Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti regarding the implications of Israel’s recognition. They warned that recognizing breakaway regions could threaten international peace and security, reaffirming support for Somalia’s unity.
The African Union also rejected Israel’s move, emphasizing its commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity. AU officials cautioned that such recognition could undermine peace and stability in Africa.
Somaliland has enjoyed effective autonomy since 1991, following Somalia’s civil war. Despite relative peace and stability, no country had recognized Somaliland until Israel’s announcement. Officials hope Israel’s recognition will encourage other nations to follow, increasing Somaliland’s diplomatic influence and access to international markets.
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Somalia and Somaliland have previously rejected proposals concerning the resettlement of Palestinians, maintaining their stance on sovereignty. Israel’s recognition marks a historic first for the breakaway region.
