Thursday 1, January 2026 {HMC} government on Wednesday thanked its international partners for what it called steadfast support for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity after Israel became the first nation to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state, a move that has drawn widespread condemnation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said allied countries had shown “principled engagement and unwavering solidarity” at a moment it described as critical for Somalia’s unity, following Israel’s announcement last week recognizing the self-declared republic in the northwest.
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“Your enduring partnership has been instrumental in reinforcing our national stability and advancing the cause of peace, security and prosperity for the Somali people,” the ministry said in a statement.
Israel’s decision, announced Friday, has been criticized by several governments, which argue it violates international law and risks further destabilizing the Horn of Africa, a region already strained by conflict, political fragmentation and humanitarian crises.
Somalia’s federal government considers Somaliland an integral part of its territory and has repeatedly rejected any unilateral recognition of the region’s independence. Mogadishu says decisions over sovereignty must come through internationally recognized processes and dialogue within Somalia.
The Foreign Ministry said Somalia places “great value” on its long-standing diplomatic relationships, adding that cooperation with partner nations remains central to maintaining peace and stability at both regional and global levels.
Israel has not publicly detailed the legal basis for its recognition, but analysts say the move could complicate relations with African and Arab states, many of which continue to back Somalia’s territorial unity.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 after the collapse of the central government, following years of repression under dictator Mohamed Siad Barre. Despite maintaining relative stability, its own security forces and democratic elections, Somaliland has failed to gain formal international recognition for more than three decades.
Source Hiiraan Online
