Israel Recognises Somaliland as Independent State in Major Diplomatic Shift

Israel recognised Somaliland as an independent state on Thursday. The move made Israel the first country to do so. It was announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. The decision came as part of what Israel called a new diplomatic push in the Horn of Africa.

According to Reuters, the move was announced after a joint declaration was signed. Somaliland’s president joined the signing. Israel said the step followed the spirit of the Abraham Accords and support from the United States. The US was reported to have encouraged talks, though no formal statement was issued.

Why Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland Matters

Somaliland has been self-ruled since 1991. It has held elections and kept relative peace. But it never gained recognition from any country until now. Israel’s decision marks a major change in that long wait.

Netanyahu said the new ties will open cooperation in farming, health, tech, and trade. The Israeli leader also invited Somaliland’s president to visit Israel. Reuters reported that Israel praised Somaliland for stability and its efforts in the region.

The move drew fast backlash. Somalia rejected the recognition and defended its territorial unity. Egypt said it held calls with Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti to discuss what it called dangerous regional developments. These countries voiced strong concern. They said recognising breakaway regions could harm global security.

Reports in the Times of Israel had earlier claimed that Somaliland spoke with Israel about possible resettlement options for Palestinians from Gaza. Both Somalia and Somaliland denied this. Reuters stated there was no evidence such offers were made. Still, the claims added tension around the announcement.

Impact on the Horn of Africa and Global Diplomacy

Israel’s recognition may shift regional ties. It could pressure other countries to take a position. It could also widen political rifts between states with rival interests in the Horn of Africa.

Somalia sees Somaliland as part of its territory. This stance is backed by the African Union, which fears new borders could spark unrest. Israel’s entry may test that unity. It may also open new alliances for Somaliland with countries watching the region.

For Israel, the move expands its outreach strategy. The country has pushed to build ties in Africa for years. The recognition may help Israel counter regional rivals. It also deepens its diplomatic footprint near the Red Sea.

For Somaliland, it is a symbolic and practical win. It gains its first recogniser. It also gains a partner with strong global influence. But the backlash shows the road ahead will be hard. Regional powers are already responding.

Israel recognises Somaliland at a tense moment for the region, and the effects will unfold in the coming months. The recognition marks a major change for Somaliland. It also places new pressure on African and Middle Eastern diplomacy.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Israel recognise Somaliland?

Israel said it acted to build new ties and support stability. It signed a joint declaration with Somaliland’s president. Reuters reported that the move followed US encouragement.

Q2: Is Somaliland a recognised country?

Somaliland governs itself but was never recognised by any nation until now. Israel became the first to recognise it. Somalia still claims the territory.

Q3: How did nearby countries respond?

Somalia, Egypt, Turkey, and Djibouti opposed the move. They warned it could harm regional stability. Egypt said the situation was dangerous.

Q4: What does recognition mean for Somaliland?

It gives Somaliland its first official diplomatic partner. It may lead to trade and tech cooperation. But it also brings political tension in the region.

Q5: Did talks include Gaza resettlement plans?

Some reports suggested such talks happened. Reuters said Somaliland and Somalia both denied this. No evidence has been confirmed.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, BBC, Times of Israel