News|Benjamin NetanyahuSomalia demands Israel withdraw Somaliland recognitionSomalia’s state minister for foreign affairs tells Al Jazeera that Israel’s move aims to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza.
## Somalia's Response to Israel's Recognition of Somaliland
Somalia's Response to Israel's Recognition of Somaliland
Somalia has formally requested that Israel rescind its recognition of the self-declared republic of Somaliland. The Somali government views this recognition as an act of aggression and a violation of its sovereignty. Ali Omar, Somalia's state minister for foreign affairs, emphasized that the nation would employ diplomatic measures to oppose Israel's decision.
Somaliland proclaimed its independence from Somalia in 1991 following a civil conflict but has not achieved recognition from any United Nations member states. Despite having its own currency, flag, and parliament, Somaliland's eastern regions remain contentious.
The recognition by Israel has sparked widespread condemnation from various African and Arab nations. Concerns have been raised about the potential implications of this move on regional stability.
The African Union, led by Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has rejected any recognition of Somaliland as an independent entity, citing the inviolability of borders established at the time of a country's independence. Similarly, the Arab League's Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit criticized the Israeli action, describing it as a violation of international law and the principle of state sovereignty.
Somalia has formally requested that Israel rescind its recognition of the self-declared republic of Somaliland.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the recognition as part of the Abraham Accords framework and has invited Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to Israel. This diplomatic move has been framed as a strategic initiative by Israel.
Somalia maintains that Somaliland is an integral part of its territory and has described Israel's action as an unlawful attack on its sovereignty. The Somali government continues to oppose any foreign interference in the region.
The situation remains tense as Somalia insists on its territorial integrity, while Israel's recognition of Somaliland has introduced new dynamics into the Horn of Africa's geopolitical landscape. The international community remains divided on the issue.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
