Israel’s Somaliland recognition draws regional condemnation

By Newsflash Writer

Israel’s decision to formally recognise Somaliland has triggered sharp condemnation from the African Union, Turkey and the Arab League, underscoring a broad regional consensus against any move seen as undermining Somalia’s territorial integrity.

The announcement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was widely labelled provocative, prompting swift diplomatic backlash from actors insisting on respect for sovereignty, international law and existing borders.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, voiced deep concern over Israel’s move, warning that it directly contradicts established continental principles.

He said the AU “unequivocally reaffirms the longstanding and consistent position of the African Union, particularly the respect for the intangibility of borders inherited at independence.”

Mahmoud cautioned that recognising Somaliland as an independent state “runs counter to the fundamental principles of the African Union and risks setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching consequences for peace and stability across the continent.”

He reiterated the AU’s commitment to “the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia,” while pledging continued support for Somali-led efforts to strengthen governance, peace and stability.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the Horn of Africa’s regional bloc, also issued a firm rebuke, stating that Somalia remains a “sovereign IGAD Member State whose unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity are fully recognised under international law.”

IGAD warned that any unilateral recognition of Somaliland violates the UN Charter, the AU Constitutive Act and IGAD’s founding treaty. The bloc urged external actors to uphold international law and support dialogue that promotes peace, stability and regional cooperation.

It further reaffirmed its solidarity with the government and people of Somalia, stressing its commitment to inclusive political processes.

Turkey, Arab League and Saudi Arabia condemn move

Turkey joined the growing chorus of criticism, describing Israel’s decision as “yet another example of the Netanyahu government’s unlawful actions aimed at creating instability at both the regional and global levels.”

Oncü Keçeli, spokesperson for Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said decisions on the future of Somalia and the Somaliland region “must reflect the will of all Somalis.”

He emphasised that Ankara “firmly supports Somalia’s territorial integrity” and would continue standing with its people.

The Arab League echoed similar concerns, condemning Israel’s recognition as “provocative and unacceptable” and warning that it could further destabilise the region.

Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said the move amounted to “a clear violation of international law and a blatant infringement of the principle of the unity and sovereignty of states.”

Arab League spokesperson Gamal Roshdy stressed that Somaliland “is an integral part of the internationally recognised sovereign Federal Republic of Somalia,” adding that any unilateral recognition constituted unacceptable interference in Somalia’s internal affairs.

Saudi Arabia also aligned itself with the widening international opposition, rejecting what it described as “mutual recognition between Israeli authorities and Somaliland.”

In a statement, Riyadh dismissed the move as a “unilateral separatist measure that violates international law,” reaffirming its full support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, as well as the country’s legitimate institutions and stability.

Israel-Somaliland ties deepen as Somalia protests

Despite the backlash, Netanyahu announced a joint declaration establishing full diplomatic relations with Somaliland, praising President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, popularly known as Abdirahman Cirro, for his leadership and commitment to regional stability and peace.

Netanyahu also extended an invitation to Cirro to visit Israel.

Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said the agreement followed a year of extensive dialogue, adding that plans were underway to appoint ambassadors and open embassies in both territories.

Cirro welcomed Israel’s recognition as a “historic moment,” describing it as the start of a strategic partnership that would advance mutual interests, enhance regional peace and security, and deliver shared benefits.

Somalia’s federal government swiftly condemned Israel’s decision, terming it an “attack” on the country’s sovereignty and reiterating that Somaliland remains an inseparable part of Somalia under international law.