Israel’s recent formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent nation has triggered a wave of strong international condemnation, with key regional and continental powers swiftly rejecting the move. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, and the African Union are among the prominent entities that have denounced Israel’s decision, warning that it violates international law and poses a significant threat to Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. This unprecedented diplomatic development has ignited concerns across African and Arab nations, raising questions about regional stability and adherence to established international norms.
The rebuke came just a day after Israel became the first United Nations member state to formally acknowledge Somaliland, a self-declared republic that unilaterally broke away from Somalia in 1991 following a protracted civil war. Until this recognition, Somaliland had maintained de facto independence for over three decades, operating with its own government, currency, and institutions, yet it remained unrecognized by any other sovereign nation. Somalia’s federal government immediately condemned Israel’s action, labelling it an act of aggression and a blatant interference in its internal affairs.
Ali Omar, Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs, articulated his government’s resolute opposition, vowing to deploy all available diplomatic avenues to challenge what he described as an unacceptable and intolerable affront to Somalia’s territorial integrity. Mr. Omar urged Israel to rescind its decision and adhere to international legal frameworks. He further alleged that Israel’s pursuit of Somaliland’s recognition was part of a broader, unconfirmed plan to displace Palestinians from Gaza, an accusation Israel has previously denied.
Qatar joined the chorus of condemnation, describing Israel’s action as a “dangerous precedent and unilateral measure” that contravenes international law and jeopardises Somalia’s unity. In an official statement, Doha underscored its rejection of any attempts to establish “parallel entities” that could undermine Somalia’s sovereignty, reaffirming its unwavering support for the legitimate Somali government and its people. The Qatari foreign ministry notably suggested that Israel should instead focus on recognising the State of Palestine and working towards an end to the conflict in Gaza.
Similarly, Saudi Arabia issued a firm rejection of Israel’s move, characterising it as an entrenchment of “unilateral separatist measures that violate international law.” Riyadh reiterated its full support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, alongside its backing for Somalia’s established legitimate institutions. These strong reactions from influential Gulf states highlight a unified front against actions perceived to destabilize the region and challenge existing state boundaries.
The African Union (AU) also strongly dismissed Israel’s recognition, expressing deep concern that it could establish a perilous precedent across the continent, potentially encouraging other secessionist movements. The AU invoked its long-standing foundational principle regarding the inviolability of borders inherited at the time of independence, unequivocally stating that Somaliland remains an integral and inseparable part of the Federal Republic of Somalia. This stance reflects a broader African commitment to preserving post-colonial territorial integrity.
Turkey, a significant player in the region, denounced the recognition as an unlawful act designed to create regional and global instability, explicitly accusing Israel of interfering in Somalia’s internal affairs. Sudan and Egypt also released statements condemning the decision, collectively warning of its profound implications for broader regional stability. Egypt’s foreign minister reportedly engaged in discussions with his counterparts in Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti, where they collectively underscored their complete rejection of any unilateral measures that could undermine Somali sovereignty or erode the foundations of stability.
Amidst the widespread criticism, Somaliland’s President, Abdirahman Abdullahi, known as Cirro, staunchly defended Israel’s recognition, asserting that the move was not directed against any other state and posed no threat to regional peace. President Cirro emphasised Somaliland’s long-standing quest for international recognition, highlighting its functional government, independent currency, and robust institutions as evidence of its viability as a sovereign entity. He pointed to these attributes as justification for its claim to self-determination.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented the recognition as a move aligned with the spirit of the Abraham Accords, which have fostered normalisation agreements between Israel and several Arab nations. He indicated plans to raise Somaliland’s case during an upcoming meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump and extended an invitation to President Abdullahi to visit Israel. Netanyahu’s government has consistently denied the allegations concerning the displacement of Palestinians, framing the recognition as a strategic diplomatic engagement.
The United States has, so far, adopted a more cautious approach, stopping short of explicitly endorsing Israel’s decision. Former President Donald Trump, commenting on the situation, stated that Washington was “studying” the issue, adding a rhetorical question: “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?” This measured response from a key global power underscores the complexity and sensitivity surrounding the recognition of self-declared states and its potential geopolitical ramifications.
Palestine’s foreign ministry also voiced its support for Somalia, recalling previous discussions where Israel allegedly floated Somaliland as a potential destination for forcibly displaced Palestinians from Gaza. The ministry described such a possibility as a “red line,” reinforcing the deep-seated concerns among Arab nations regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the future of its population. This adds another layer of geopolitical tension to the unfolding diplomatic situation.
