Pakistan, other countries express concern over Palestinian's possible forced displacement

Israel’s recent decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent state was disregarded by Pakistan and its allies. These countries questioned the motive behind Israel’s move and expressed deep concern at the UNSC. 

Israel became the first country to formally recognize Somaliland on 26 December 2025, a region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but had not previously gained international recognition. 

Pakistan’s Deputy UN Ambassador Muhammad Usman Iqbal Jadoon described Israel’s “unlawful recognition” of the Somaliland region as “deeply troubling.” He highlighted past Israeli references to Somaliland as a potential destination for relocating Palestinians from Gaza.

20 Muslim-majority countries, along with Pakistan and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, issued a joint statement rejecting the decision. They called it a blatant violation of international law and a threat to peace and security in the Horn of Africa.

The statement reaffirmed full support for Somalia’s sovereignty and rejected any attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza to Somalia. 

Somalia’s UN ambassador also condemned the recognition by Israel, citing the same concerns as others. 

Meanwhile, China and the United Kingdom, argued that recognizing a region of an existing UN member state breaches the UN Charter. 

The 22-member Arab UN representatives rejected any measures linked to the recognition that might facilitate forced displacement of Palestinians or the use of Somali ports for military purposes. 

In response, Israel defended its decision at the council, with its deputy ambassador declaring that the recognition was not hostile to Somalia nor intended to prevent dialogue, but rather seen as an opportunity for cooperation. 

The controversial recognition by Israel has sparked renewed calls for respect for sovereign borders.