Israel Recognizes Somaliland Despite Global Backlash

Israel has made a bold diplomatic move that is reshaping the geopolitical map of the Horn of Africa. On Friday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally announced Israel’s recognition of the Republic of Somaliland, becoming the first nation in the world to do so an act that has sparked global controversy but was met with celebration in Hargeisa.

“This decision was made in the spirit of the Abraham Accords,” Netanyahu said, referring to the historic normalization framework that continues to guide Israel’s expanding global ties. In a joint declaration signed with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, Israel committed to immediate cooperation in agriculture, health, technology, and the economy.

The move drew swift condemnation from several Muslim-majority nations, including Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Somalia. Qatar denounced the recognition as “categorically rejected,” prompting a blunt rebuke from Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli, who labeled the Gulf emirate a “mafia state” responsible for terror and corruption.

But in Hargeisa, the mood was electric. Residents celebrated as the Israeli flag lit up the capital’s skyline an unmistakable signal of a new era. “Somaliland’s moment has arrived,” the state’s foreign ministry declared. With a functioning democracy and over 34 years of self-governance, Somaliland has long sought international legitimacy. For its leaders, Israel’s recognition is not just symbolic it’s a transformative milestone.

At the United Nations, Israel is standing alone but firm. Ambassador Danny Danon, responding to a hastily called Security Council session scheduled for Monday, made it clear that Jerusalem will not back down. “Israel will not shy away from political discussions,” Danon posted. “We will continue to act responsibly and with discretion to strengthen cooperation with partners who contribute to regional stability.”

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar dismissed criticism from the Palestinian Authority, mocking its condemnation as coming from a “virtual country” trying to lecture Israel for recognizing a functioning, independent state.

The strategic significance of the move is difficult to overstate. Somaliland, located along the Gulf of Aden, offers not just political partnership but regional leverage in a part of the world marked by instability, piracy, and jihadist threats. As a secular democracy with a population of 6.2 million, Somaliland shares key values with Israel and offers a promising foundation for a partnership rooted in mutual interest.

Critics argue the move could further isolate Israel diplomatically, particularly with nations sensitive to sovereignty issues. But Jerusalem is sending a clear message: it will choose allies based on shared values and contributions to peace not political convenience.

By recognizing Somaliland, Israel has taken a courageous step, aligning with a people who have long been denied international acknowledgment despite building a functioning democracy in one of the world’s toughest neighborhoods.

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