Somaliland's Independence Gains Global Attention with Israel's Historic Recognition

Sat Dec 27 2025 11:01:07 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Israel has recognized Somaliland as an independent state, a move described by Somaliland's president as 'historic'. This recognition has sparked mixed reactions within the region and may influence Somaliland's diplomatic standing.

In a groundbreaking move, Israel has become the first country to recognize Somaliland as an independent nation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced intentions to enhance cooperation with Somaliland in various sectors. Somaliland's President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi hailed the recognition as a historic moment, while the government of Somalia condemned the move as an attack on its sovereignty. International reactions continue to unfold, raising questions about the potential shift in diplomatic relations and the future of Somaliland.

Somaliland's Independence Gains Global Attention with Israel's Historic Recognition

Israel has made a significant diplomatic move by becoming the first country to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to enhance cooperation with the region in agriculture, health, and technological advancements, positioning this as a pivotal step for Somaliland.

Somaliland's President, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, expressed his excitement, calling this development 'historic' and asserting Somaliland’s commitment to expanding diplomatic ties, including joining the Abraham Accords aimed at promoting peace within the region.

The recognition by Israel could potentially encourage other countries to follow suit, bolstering Somaliland's international standing and economic prospects. However, the move has been met with strong opposition from Somalia’s government, which referred to Israel's actions as a direct violation of its sovereignty.

Following the announcement, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre labeled the recognition a 'deliberate attack' and gathered support from his counterparts in Egypt, Turkey, and Djibouti to reaffirm their commitment to Somalia's territorial integrity.

In response to the recognition, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar outlined plans for establishing full diplomatic relations with Somaliland, including opening embassies. The situation remains tense, with various nations voicing concerns about the implications of recognizing regions within sovereign states as independent entities.

This significant acknowledgment for Somaliland, a region striving for recognition since declaring independence in 1991, highlights its strategic importance on the Gulf of Aden while dealing with its historical struggles for international legitimacy.