Israel Officially Recognizes Somaliland, Paving New Diplomatic Path

Fri Dec 26 2025 22:06:02 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces formal recognition of Somaliland, marking a significant step in international relations amidst regional tensions.

In a groundbreaking move, Israel has become the first country to officially recognize Somaliland as an independent state. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's announcement has been met with mixed reactions, including condemnation from Somalia and neighboring countries. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi of Somaliland hailed the recognition as historic, and both nations are set to establish full diplomatic ties, focusing on cooperation in various sectors.

Israel has become the first country to formally recognize Somalia's breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent nation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Israel's intention to expand cooperation in agriculture, health, and technology. Somaliland's president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, referred to the declaration as a 'historic moment.'

This recognition from Israel could prompt other nations to follow suit, potentially enhancing Somaliland's diplomatic standing and access to international markets. However, it has faced backlash from the foreign ministers of Somalia, Egypt, Turkey, and Djibouti, who have expressed their total rejection of Israel's announcement.

Abdullahi has stated that Somaliland would join the Abraham Accords, viewing this as a step towards regional stability. He emphasized Somaliland's commitment to forming partnerships and promoting mutual prosperity across the Middle East and Africa.

The two nations plan to establish full diplomatic relations, including appointing ambassadors and opening embassies. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed this development and instructed his ministry to begin institutionalizing ties across various sectors.

Meanwhile, Egypt's foreign minister discussed the matter with counterparts from Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti, reinforcing their support for Somalia's unity and warning against actions undermining its state integrity.

Israel has been actively seeking to strengthen relations in the Middle East and Africa, facing challenges due to ongoing conflicts in the region. The recent change in Somaliland's diplomatic status could signify new opportunities for both Israel and Somaliland, as the latter has struggled for recognition since declaring its independence from Somalia in 1991.

With a population of nearly six million and a strategic location by the Gulf of Aden, Somaliland has long sought international recognition and is now positioned to increase its influence in regional dynamics, despite potential ramifications for the broader geopolitical landscape.