Israel Faces Criticism After Becoming First Country to Recognise Somaliland as Independent Nation
Israel has formally recognised Somaliland as an independent nation, becoming the first country to do so. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has since maintained autonomy and relative stability. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel will seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland in sectors including agriculture, health, technology, and the economy. He framed this recognition as aligned with the Abraham Accords, the 2020 initiative led by former US President Donald Trump.
The move has been strongly condemned by Somalia's government, which described it as unlawful and an attack on the country's sovereignty. The Somali prime minister's office rejected any recognition of Somaliland. The United States State Department continues to recognise Somalia's territorial integrity, including Somaliland. Similarly, the European Union called for respect for Somalia's unity and urged meaningful dialogue between Mogadishu and Somaliland to resolve their differences.
More than 20 countries, mainly from the Middle East and Africa, have rejected Israel's recognition. A joint statement signed by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation also rejected any connection between Israel's recognition of Somaliland and the expulsions of Palestinians.
