News|PoliticsAt UN, Somalia slams Israel’s Somaliland recognition as ‘threat’ to peaceSomalia says it is concerned the recognition serves as a pretext for the forced relocation of Palestinians.
## Somalia's Position on Somaliland Recognition
Somalia's Position on Somaliland Recognition
Somalia has expressed strong opposition to Israel's formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent state. In a communication to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) dated Mon, Dec 28, 2025, Somalia described the action as a violation of its sovereignty and a threat to international peace and security.
Somalia's UNSC representative, Abu Bakr Dahir Osman, emphasized that Somaliland is not legally authorized to enter into international agreements or receive recognition from other nations.
Israel has acknowledged the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent entity, citing alignment with the principles of the Abraham Accords. This makes Israel the first nation to extend such recognition to Somaliland.
Somalia has raised concerns that this recognition could potentially serve as a pretext for the forced relocation of Palestinians to northwestern Somalia, and it urged the UNSC to uphold Somalia's territorial integrity.
Somalia has expressed strong opposition to Israel's formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.
The United Kingdom has reiterated its non-recognition of Somaliland's independence and has reaffirmed support for Somalia's sovereignty. It has called for collaboration between Somalia's federal government and Somaliland authorities to address mutual challenges.
China and South Africa have also refused to acknowledge Somaliland's independence, emphasizing the importance of respecting national sovereignty and discouraging external interference in Somalia’s internal affairs.
In contrast, the United States has not altered its policy regarding Somaliland, with its deputy representative to the UN stating that each sovereign state has the right to establish its diplomatic relations.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following a civil conflict. It operates with its own constitution, currency, and flag while controlling a portion of northwestern Somalia. Despite seeking international recognition for over 30 years, Somaliland remains unrecognized by the international community. The territory corresponding to the former British Somaliland protectorate is claimed by Somaliland, although its eastern regions are contested by Somalia-aligned administrations.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
