At a Glance
- Israel recognized Somaliland as an independent state for the first time in over 30 years.
- More than 20 countries and the OIC rejected the move, citing security risks in the Horn of Africa.
- Somalia reaffirmed its territorial integrity, and the US State Department said it continues to recognize Somalia as a whole.
- Why it matters: The decision could reshape diplomatic ties and affect regional stability in East Africa.
Israel’s first recognition of Somaliland came on Friday, a day after the breakaway region declared independence in 1991. The move was part of an initiative launched in 2020 under the Abraham Accords, aimed at strengthening ties between Israel and several Arab and Muslim-majority countries. Netanyahu, Gideon Saar, and Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi signed a joint declaration in the spirit of that accord.
Global rejection and regional reactions followed on Saturday. A joint statement by more than 20 countries, primarily from the Middle East and Africa, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation denounced the recognition, warning of serious repercussions for peace and security in the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea, and beyond. Syria also issued a separate statement rejecting the move.
Joint Statement
> The full rejection of any potential link between such measure and any attempts to forcibly expel the Palestinian people out of their land.
| Entity | Position |
|---|---|
| Israel | Recognized Somaliland |
| 20+ countries & OIC | Rejected recognition |
| Somalia | Reaffirmed territorial integrity |
| US State Dept | Continues to recognize Somalia |
| IGAD | Unilateral recognition runs contrary to UN charter |
| African Union | Risks peace and stability on the continent |
The United States had earlier discussed a plan to resettle Palestinians from Gaza in Somaliland, a proposal that was later abandoned. Somalia’s federal government called the recognition an unlawful move and emphasized that Somaliland remains part of its sovereign territory.
Key Takeaways
- Israel’s recognition of Somaliland is the first such acknowledgment in over 30 years.
- More than 20 countries and the OIC rejected the move, citing security concerns.
- Somalia and the US State Department reaffirmed Somalia’s territorial integrity.
The global backlash highlights the delicate balance of diplomatic relations in the region and underscores the potential impact of unilateral recognition on international stability.
