Israel Officially Recognizes Somaliland's Independence in Historic Move

Sat Dec 27 2025 11:43:59 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a landmark decision, Israel has become the first nation to officially recognize Somaliland as an independent state, expanding bilateral cooperation in various sectors following the announcement by Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Israel has recognized Somaliland as an independent nation, a historic declaration made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This move may set a precedent for international diplomatic recognition of Somaliland, with promises to enhance cooperation in sectors such as agriculture and technology. The recognition has drawn strong condemnation from Somalia and several other nations, emphasizing issues of sovereignty and regional stability.

Israel has become the first country to formally recognize Somalia's breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent nation. This significant development was announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who indicated that Israel intends to immediately expand cooperation in agriculture, health, and technology. Somaliland's President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi hailed the recognition as a 'historic moment' for his territory.

The recognition by Israel could pave the way for other nations to follow suit, thereby enhancing Somaliland's diplomatic stature and opening up international market opportunities.

In response, Somalia's Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre condemned the recognition as a 'deliberate attack' on the sovereignty of Somalia. He articulated that such actions could destabilize the region.

President Abdullahi has expressed Somaliland's intention to join the Abraham Accords, regarding this step as groundwork for fostering peace both regionally and globally. He emphasized the commitment to building partnerships that promote mutual prosperity and regional stability.

The announcement has faced backlash from the foreign ministers of Somalia, Egypt, Turkey, and Djibouti, who collectively denounced Israel's decision and affirmed support for Somalia's unity and territorial integrity.

Israel's move includes plans to establish full diplomatic relations, involving the appointment of ambassadors and opening embassies, as declared by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar.

The ongoing tensions reflect broader geopolitical dynamics in the region, as Egypt's foreign minister has coordinated discussions with counterparts in Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti to address the implications of Israel's recognition of Somaliland.

Historically, Somaliland has faced isolation since declaring independence in 1991, yet it maintains its own currency, passports, and law enforcement. The territory has strategic significance positioned on the Gulf of Aden and has recently attracted regional interest due to agreements over resource management and territorial access.