By: The Trek News Desk
Somalia and the African Union have strongly criticised Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland as an “independent and sovereign state,” warning that the move threatens regional stability and undermines Somalia’s territorial integrity. Israel has become the first country to formally recognise the self-declared region, triggering fresh political tensions in Africa and the Middle East.
In a statement, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the recognition as a direct violation of the country’s sovereignty. The ministry cautioned that such actions could destabilise the Horn of Africa and encourage separatist movements across the continent.
The African Union echoed Somalia’s concerns, firmly rejecting Israel’s move. AU Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf stated that Somaliland remains an inseparable part of the Federal Republic of Somalia. He warned that any attempt to weaken a member state’s unity and borders could set a dangerous precedent for peace and stability in Africa.
Somaliland declared unilateral independence from Somalia in 1991 but has remained internationally unrecognised for more than three decades. Since assuming office last year, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi has made global recognition a key priority of his administration.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the decision aligns with the spirit of the Abraham Accords, agreements that normalised relations between Israel and several Arab nations during US President Donald Trump’s term. Netanyahu also extended an invitation to Somaliland’s president to visit Israel.
The United States, however, has distanced itself from the move. Donald Trump, speaking to the media, said Washington is not considering recognition of Somaliland at this stage.
Welcoming Israel’s announcement, President Abdullahi described it as the beginning of a strategic partnership and expressed Somaliland’s willingness to join the Abraham Accords. Celebrations were reported in the Somaliland capital, Hargeisa, where residents took to the streets following the announcement.
Turkey, a close ally of Somalia, condemned Israel’s decision, calling it an open interference in Somalia’s internal affairs. Egypt also coordinated with Turkey, Somalia and Djibouti to reaffirm support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Analysts believe Israel’s recognition is driven by strategic considerations, given Somaliland’s location near the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, an area of growing geopolitical and trade importance. Despite its relative stability, Somaliland has struggled to attract foreign investment and aid due to the lack of international recognition, leaving the region economically underdeveloped.
Source: News Agencies
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