In a significant political development, former Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi has called for full governmental transparency regarding the recently announced diplomatic agreement with Israel. Through a comprehensive video address, the influential political figure emphasized that Somaliland’s constitutional framework explicitly prohibits any actions contradicting Islamic principles or causing harm to Muslim communities worldwide.
Abdi, who maintains considerable political influence through clan networks despite his electoral defeat, stated that authorities must publicly disclose all terms negotiated with Israel. He warned that should the agreement violate constitutional provisions, fail to serve mutual interests equally, or adversely affect Muslim populations, he would openly challenge the arrangement.
This diplomatic recognition, announced on December 26th, represents a historic shift as Israel became the first United Nations member state to acknowledge Somaliland’s independence from Somalia. The move has triggered widespread condemnation across African and Muslim-majority nations, with Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud alleging the deal includes provisions for relocating Palestinians from Gaza and establishing an Israeli military installation.
While Somaliland officials have denied plans to accept forcibly displaced Palestinians or host foreign military bases, regional analysts suggest Israel would not extend recognition without securing strategic advantages. The potential establishment of a Red Sea military facility to counter Iranian influence remains a subject of intense speculation.
The recognition has sparked domestic religious debates in Hargeisa, with prominent Muslim scholars questioning the morality of engaging with Israel amid the Gaza conflict. Regionally, armed groups including al-Shabab and Yemen’s Houthi movement have vowed resistance against any Israeli presence.
International opposition has emerged at the highest levels, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warning during his Ethiopia visit that such moves could destabilize the volatile Horn of Africa region. The African Union has formally condemned Israel’s unilateral recognition and called for its retraction.