Israel Recognises Somaliland as Independent State, Prompting Diplomatic Reactions
Israel has become the first country to formally recognise Somaliland as an independent state. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel will immediately expand cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, health, and technology sectors. Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi described the move as historic and stated that Somaliland will join the Abraham Accords, establishing full diplomatic ties including ambassadors and embassies.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed that full diplomatic ties would be established with Somaliland and instructed the foreign ministry to institutionalise relations across various fields. The recognition could enhance Somaliland's diplomatic credentials and access to international markets, potentially encouraging other nations to follow.
However, the move was condemned by Somalia, Egypt, Turkey, and Djibouti, who rejected the recognition and warned against unilateral actions that could undermine Somalia's unity and territorial integrity. Egypt’s foreign ministry reaffirmed support for Somalia’s sovereignty and cautioned against creating parallel entities or unilateral recognitions contrary to international law.
Somaliland is a self-declared republic founded in 1991, maintaining its own currency, passports, and police force. Located on the Gulf of Aden, it has been relatively isolated, but recent developments include a 2023-24 agreement with Ethiopia concerning a port and military base. This recognition by Israel has intensified regional diplomatic discourse, particularly given the opposition from neighbouring countries.
