In a historic diplomatic move, Israel has become the first country in the world to formally recognize Somaliland, the breakaway region of Somalia that has remained unrecognized by any UN member state for more than three decades.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that Israel and Somaliland had signed a joint declaration establishing full diplomatic relations, describing the agreement as being “in the spirit of the Abraham Accords”—the series of deals brokered by the United States to normalize relations between Israel and several Arab states.

Somalia Condemns Recognition

The government of Somalia quickly denounced Israel’s move as an “attack” on its sovereignty and an “unlawful action,” reaffirming that Somaliland remains an inseparable part of Somalia. Somalia’s Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali participated in a call with the foreign ministers of Egypt, Turkiye, and Djibouti, all of whom reiterated their support for Somalia’s territorial integrity.

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry warned that recognizing a secessionist region could set a “dangerous precedent” in violation of the UN Charter, emphasizing that respect for sovereignty is essential for global stability.

Somaliland’s Response

President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Abdirahman Cirro) welcomed Israel’s recognition, calling it a “historic moment” and the start of a strategic partnership to advance mutual interests, regional peace, and economic prosperity. Netanyahu congratulated Cirro during a video call, praising his leadership and inviting him to visit Israel.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar noted that the agreement follows a year of intensive dialogue, committing to full diplomatic ties, including the appointment of ambassadors and opening embassies in both countries. Saar added that both nations will collaborate on regional stability, economic cooperation, and other areas of mutual interest.

A Diplomatic Milestone for Somaliland

The recognition marks a dramatic shift in Somaliland’s fortunes after decades of diplomatic isolation. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following a brutal civil war and has maintained relative stability while much of southern Somalia descended into chaos.

The region operates with a distinct political identity, including its own flag, parliament, and currency, although some eastern territories remain disputed. In recent years, Somaliland cultivated ties with the United Arab Emirates and Taiwan, seeking international acceptance and investment.

International Implications

While Israel’s recognition represents a major breakthrough for Somaliland, it has sparked controversy:

• The US has not changed its position on Somaliland recognition, despite advocacy by figures such as Senator Ted Cruz and discussions by former President Donald Trump.
• Concerns have been raised that recognition could embolden other separatist regions worldwide or affect Somalia’s federal system, which grants significant autonomy to states like Puntland and Jubaland.

Analysts note that Israel’s move may signal that strategic value can influence diplomatic recognition, making Somaliland a transactional partner on the international stage.

Somaliland and the Abraham Accords

Cirro expressed readiness for Somaliland to join the Abraham Accords, highlighting potential economic and security collaboration with Israel. The deal could also strengthen Horn of Africa regional diplomacy, encouraging trade, investment, and stability in a historically fragile region.

Looking Ahead

Somaliland now faces the challenge of leveraging Israel’s recognition to gain broader international legitimacy, while Somalia and its allies continue to oppose any further recognitions. Experts suggest that this development may encourage other de facto states to seek recognition based on strategic partnerships rather than international consensus.