Israel's unprecedented recognition of Somaliland as an independent nation has been met with widespread international rejection, including from numerous African and Middle Eastern countries, the U.S., and regional bodies, who warn of serious repercussions for peace and security.
Israel's recent recognition of Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, as an independent nation marks the first such declaration in over 30 years. This move has triggered significant international backlash, with more than 20 mostly Middle Eastern and African countries, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and Syria issuing a joint statement rejecting it. They express grave concerns about the potential repercussions for peace and security in the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea, and globally, also rejecting any link to attempts to expel Palestinians. The United States also affirmed its continued recognition of Somalia's territorial integrity, including Somaliland. Somalia's federal government vehemently rejected Israel's action, reaffirming Somaliland as an integral part of its sovereign territory. Regional African bodies like the African Union and IGAD also condemned the recognition, emphasizing that it undermines Somalia's sovereignty and risks continental stability, running contrary to international law and UN charters. While Israel's exact motivations remain unclear, its office linked the declaration to the 'spirit of the Abraham Accords.' Past discussions about Somaliland potentially taking in Palestinians from Gaza, though a U.S. plan since abandoned, were also noted.
