Somalia has sharply escalated its diplomatic response after Israel became the first country to formally recognise Somaliland. Mogadishu has called the move a direct violation of its sovereignty and warned that it will challenge the decision at every international forum available.
The development has triggered strong reactions across Africa and the Arab world. It has also reopened long-standing debates over borders, recognition, and foreign influence in the strategically vital Horn of Africa.
Why Did Somalia Reject Israel’s Somaliland Recognition?
Somalia considers Somaliland an inseparable part of its territory. The federal government views Israel’s decision as foreign interference in its internal affairs. Ali Omar, Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs, made the government’s position clear in a public interview.
“This will never be acceptable or tolerable to our government and people who are united in defending our territorial integrity,” Omar said. “Our government strongly advises the State of Israel to rescind its divisive actions and abide by international law.” Somalia has pledged to pursue diplomatic and legal options to reverse the recognition.
What is Somaliland and Why is It Disputed?
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 after the collapse of the central government and years of civil war. It has its own parliament, flag, and currency. However, no United Nations member state had recognised it until now.
Somalia argues that international law protects colonial-era borders. It says any recognition of Somaliland threatens regional stability and sets a dangerous precedent for Africa.
Is Gaza Linked to Somaliland Recognition?
Somalia has also accused Israel of linking the recognition to broader geopolitical goals. “One of the motivating factors is the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza,” Omar told Al Jazeera. “It has been widely known – Israel’s goal on that issue.”
Palestine’s foreign ministry supported Somalia’s position and said any plan involving the forced displacement of Palestinians crosses a “red line”.
How Has Israel Responded?
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu described the move as part of the Abraham Accords framework. He said he would raise Somaliland’s case during talks with US President Donald Trump.
Netanyahu also invited Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known as Cirro, to Israel. Cirro has accepted the invitation. However, Cirro insisted the recognition is peaceful. He said it is “not directed against any state, nor does it pose a threat to regional peace”.
Where Does the US Stand?
President Donald Trump has distanced the US from Israel’s decision. He said Washington would not follow Israel’s lead. Somalia welcomed Trump’s stance. A senior minister publicly thanked him for the support. The US has also expressed frustration with Somalia over security issues and hinted at cutting funding for peacekeeping operations.
African Union and Arab League Push Back
The African Union rejected any recognition of Somaliland. It warned that changing borders would destabilise the continent. The AU cited its long-standing principle of respecting inherited borders.
The Arab League also condemned Israel’s move. It called it a violation of international law and an attack on an Arab and African state.
Celebrations in Somaliland, Protests Elsewhere
While diplomatic tensions rise, thousands celebrated in Somaliland’s capital, Hargeisa. Residents waved flags and marked what they saw as the end of three decades of isolation.
In Somalia, the mood remains tense. Officials say the issue goes beyond recognition. They see it as a test of international respect for sovereignty.
