Israel has made history by becoming the first country to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state. This move, announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marks a significant shift in regional dynamics and has sparked both celebrations and condemnation. Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has been seeking international recognition for decades. The recognition is seen as a strategic move by Israel, given Somaliland’s location on the Gulf of Aden, a critical trade route.
The decision has been welcomed by Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, who sees it as a historic breakthrough. Abdullahi has expressed interest in joining the Abraham Accords, a US-brokered deal aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and Arab countries. However, Somalia’s government has strongly rejected the recognition, calling it an “existential threat” to its unity and sovereignty.
The international community is divided on the issue, with some countries like the UK, China, and Turkey expressing concerns over the recognition, while others see it as an opportunity for regional stability. The African Union has warned that recognizing Somaliland could set a “dangerous precedent” and undermine peace and stability in the region.
