Israel becomes first country to recognise Somaliland

The Republic of Somaliland, self-declared as an independent and sovereign state, has been officially recognized by Israel.

A move expected to reshape regional dynamics and sharply test Somalia’s long-standing opposition to being independant.

PM Netanyahu, while announcing the decision, said that Israel would work with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology and the economy. He also congratulated Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, the President of Somaliland, praised his leadership and invited him to visit Israel.

Netanyahu said the recognition was “in the spirit of the Abraham Accords,” initiated by former US president Donald Trump’s first administration, under which Israel normalized relations with the UAE and Bahrain in 2020, followed by other countries, later on.

Netanyahu, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and President Abdullahi also signed a joint declaration of mutual recognition. Abdullahi said Somaliland would join the Abraham Accords, calling the step a move towards regional and global peace. 

He said Somaliland was committed to building partnerships, working towards prosperity and stability across the Middle East and Africa.

Somalia’s federal government swiftly condemned Israel’s move, rejecting any recognition of Somaliland, claiming that it would pursue all diplomatic, political and legal measures under international law to defend its unity and geographic borders.

Regional reaction followed quickly as Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held calls with his allies in Somalia, Turkey and Djibouti, warning of dangerous developments in the Horn of Africa. The ministers condemned Israel’s decision and reaffirmed support for Somalia’s territorial integrity.

The African Union also rejected the recognition saying it will risk peace and stability across the continent.

Somaliland has never previously been recognised by any country. The former British region hopes Israel’s move will encourage others to follow, strengthening its diplomatic standing and access to international markets.