Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called Israel’s recognition of Somaliland a threat to regional security and stability. Speaking to parliament, he described the move as “blunt aggression against the sovereignty, independence, and unity” of Somalia.
On Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel would be the first country to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state. Netanyahu said Israel would cooperate with Somaliland in areas such as agriculture, health, technology, and the economy. He also invited Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to visit Israel.
The recognition is linked to the Abraham Accords, a 2020 agreement that established Israel’s diplomatic ties with several Middle Eastern countries. Somaliland’s president welcomed the move, saying it would promote regional peace, partnerships, and stability across the Middle East and Africa.
Somalia’s government strongly rejected the decision, calling it “unlawful” and a deliberate attack on its sovereignty. Officials said they would take all necessary diplomatic, political, and legal steps to defend the country’s unity and internationally recognized borders. President Mohamud also called the recognition “illegal aggression” and contrary to international law.
The European Union urged respect for Somalia’s unity and encouraged meaningful dialogue between Mogadishu and Somaliland to resolve their long-standing differences.
