Somalia, African Union Condemn Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland
MOGADISHU/ADDIS ABABA – The Federal Republic of Somalia and the African Union (AU) have forcefully rejected Israel’s announcement that it recognizes the breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent state.
The diplomatic controversy erupted on Friday when Israel stated it viewed Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, as “an independent and sovereign state.” The move represents a significant, though unilateral, diplomatic boost for the territory, which has sought international recognition for over three decades.
Somalia’s government in Mogadishu swiftly condemned the decision, labeling it a “deliberate attack” on its sovereignty and territorial integrity. In a statement, Somali officials asserted that the recognition undermines ongoing efforts towards peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and violates international law.
The African Union, headquartered in Addis Ababa, echoed Somalia’s condemnation. In a statement, the continental body warned that Israel’s move sets a “dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent.” The AU reiterated its unwavering support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of Somalia, aligning with its longstanding position of respecting colonial-era borders.
Somaliland, a former British protectorate that united with Italian Somaliland in 1960 to form Somalia, has functioned as a de facto independent state with its own government, currency, and security forces since breaking away amid Somalia’s civil war. While it has built relative stability and held democratic elections, no UN member state has granted it formal recognition.
President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi of Somaliland has made achieving international recognition a top priority since taking office last year. Israel’s announcement, though not constituting formal bilateral recognition at this stage, marks a rare and provocative break from the international consensus.
Analysts suggest the move could further inflame tensions in the volatile region. Somalia maintains that Somaliland is an inseparable part of its territory, and any external recognition is considered a hostile act. The international community, including the United Nations and major powers, continues to recognize the Federal Republic of Somalia within its 1960 borders.
There has been no immediate comment from the Israeli government on the condemnations from Somalia and the African Union. The situation introduces a new layer of geopolitical complexity into the Horn of Africa, with observers watching for potential ripple effects and responses from other regional and global actors.
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