Saturday December 27, 2025 {HMC} The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Friday strongly rejected any move to recognize the breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent state, describing such a step as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty.
In an official statement, the OIC said the move constitutes a “flagrant violation of the sovereignty, national unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.”
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The General Secretariat reaffirmed its full solidarity with Somalia at what it described as a critical juncture, stressing its unwavering support for the country’s sovereignty, unity, and legitimate state institutions. It said the recognition undermines established diplomatic norms and infringes on the rights of a sovereign OIC member state.
The statement also emphasized the need for strict adherence to the principles outlined in the Charter of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Charter of the United Nations, and international law. According to the OIC, these legal frameworks mandate respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states principles it said were disregarded by the Israeli announcement.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the Horn of Africa, the OIC warned that unilateral actions could undermine peace, security, and stability in the region. It firmly rejected any measures that could fuel fragmentation or destabilization in the area.
The OIC’s statement followed Israel’s announcement on Friday recognizing Somaliland as a sovereign state, making it the first country to do so.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not received international recognition. It operates as a de facto autonomous political, administrative, and security entity, while the Federal Government of Somalia has been unable to reassert authority over the region.
