Israel Makes History by Recognizing Somaliland as Independent State

Israel became the first nation to formally recognize Somaliland. It declared the region an independent and sovereign state on Friday. The move could reshape the Horn of Africa’s political map.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the decision. He said Israel would seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland. The move was made in the spirit of the Abraham Accords.

A New Diplomatic Frontier in the Horn of Africa

Netanyahu congratulated Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi. He praised the leader’s vision for peace and prosperity. Netanyahu invited the president for an official visit to Israel.

A joint declaration of mutual recognition was signed. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also signed the document. According to Reuters, Somaliland has enjoyed effective autonomy since 1991.

It broke away as Somalia collapsed into civil war. Yet, no other country had granted it formal recognition until now. The region has maintained relative peace and stability.

Regional Backlash and Strategic Implications

The announcement triggered swift condemnation from neighboring states. Egypt’s Foreign Minister held urgent calls with officials from Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti. They condemned Israel’s recognition as a dangerous development.

The ministers reaffirmed full support for Somalia’s unity. They warned recognizing breakaway regions threatens international security. Somalia has long rallied international actors against such a move.

For Somaliland, this recognition is a major diplomatic victory. It hopes the move will encourage other nations to follow suit. This could increase its access to global markets and institutions.

This historic recognition by Israel places Somaliland on an unprecedented path. It directly challenges Somalia’s territorial claims. The geopolitical repercussions will be closely watched across the globe.

Info at your fingertips

What did Israel officially recognize?

Israel recognized the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state. It is the first country in the world to extend such formal diplomatic recognition.

How did Somalia react to the news?

Somalia, along with regional partners like Egypt and Turkey, condemned the decision. They reaffirmed support for Somalia’s unity and called the move a threat to regional stability and security.

What are the Abraham Accords?

The Abraham Accords are agreements normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations. Netanyahu stated the recognition of Somaliland was made in the spirit of these accords, suggesting broader diplomatic outreach.

Has Somaliland been independent before?

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991. It has functioned as a de facto independent state with its own government and currency but lacked international recognition until Israel’s announcement.

What cooperation did Israel propose?

Prime Minister Netanyahu said Israel would seek immediate cooperation in key areas. These include agriculture, health, technology, and direct economic partnerships with Somaliland.