In a landmark diplomatic move that has drawn widespread international criticism, Israel has become the first nation to formally recognize the breakaway territory of Somaliland as an independent sovereign state. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the signing of a mutual declaration of recognition on Friday, marking a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa.
The declaration has been met with swift condemnation from multiple nations and international bodies. Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry issued a statement rejecting the recognition as a violation of international law that undermines Somalia’s territorial integrity. Turkey characterized the move as “yet another example of the Netanyahu government’s unlawful actions aimed at creating instability,” while Qatar denounced it as a “dangerous precedent.”
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty coordinated with counterparts from Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti in a unified rejection of Israel’s decision. The African Union expressed “deep concern” over the development, reaffirming its commitment to the “intangibility of borders inherited at independence.”
The Palestinian Authority condemned the recognition as part of “Israel’s attempts as a colonial power to undermine international peace and security,” specifically referencing previous reports of Israel considering Somaliland as a potential resettlement location for Palestinians from Gaza. Somali Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi declared Mogadishu would “under no circumstances” accept the recognition, warning that discussions about forcibly displacing Palestinians to Somali territory were “completely unacceptable.”
While U.S. President Donald Trump stated the matter was “under study,” he displayed limited familiarity with the region, asking reporters “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?” when questioned about potential strategic port access. The United Arab Emirates, which maintains close relations with Somaliland and has developed infrastructure at Berbera port, remained silent on the declaration.
Despite overwhelming international criticism, the move received support from Ethiopian State Minister for Industry Tarekegn Bululta Godana, who called it a “notable diplomatic move,” and UK Reform leader Nigel Farage, who has long advocated for Somaliland’s recognition. Netanyahu framed the declaration as being “in the spirit” of the Abraham Accords and extended an invitation to Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi for an official visit to Israel.