Israel Recognizes Somaliland: A First That Sparks Fury in Somalia

Thousands of flags are waving in Hargeisa, but Mogadishu is calling it an act of aggression. Israel has become the first nation in the world to formally recognize the breakaway region of Somaliland, setting off a diplomatic firestorm. While the move marks a historic breakthrough for the self-declared republic, Somalia has condemned the action as a direct violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

A Historic Breakthrough After 34 Years

On December 27, 2025, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a video call with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to finalize the recognition. Somaliland, which broke away from Somalia in 1991, has operated as an independent state with its own currency and government for over 30 years without formal global recognition—until now.

The reaction from Somalia was swift and severe. Ali Omar, Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, told Al Jazeera that the government will pursue all diplomatic means to challenge this "state aggression." He emphasized that Somalia advised the State of Israel to rescind its actions and abide by international law, stressing that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somali territory.

Gaza Displacement Allegations and Global Backlash

The recognition has fueled suspicions regarding Israel's long-term regional plans. Palestine's foreign ministry claimed that Israel's move is tied to an alleged plan to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza to Somaliland—a claim Somalia's government echoed. The African Union (AU) and the Arab League have also rejected the recognition, warning it sets a dangerous precedent for African borders.

Interestingly, Donald Trump has distanced himself from Netanyahu on this issue. Despite Netanyahu's plan to champion the cause during their meeting on Monday, Trump told The New York Post he wouldn't follow Israel's lead. This marks a notable shift in the US-Israel alignment regarding the Horn of Africa, as Somalia’s leadership welcomed Trump’s stance.