Arab nations denounce Israel’s recognition of Somaliland

(MENAFN) Several Arab countries have expressed strong opposition to Israel’s recent recognition of the breakaway Somaliland region, denouncing the action as a breach of international law and reaffirming their commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Saudi Arabia criticized the move, stating it reinforces “unilateral, separatist measures” and contradicts international law. The Saudi Foreign Ministry emphasized the kingdom’s “full support” for Somalia’s sovereignty and the unity and integrity of its territory. Riyadh also condemned “attempts to impose parallel entities” that could destabilize Somalia and reiterated its backing for the country’s legitimate state institutions.

Palestine similarly denounced Israel’s recognition, labeling it a threat to both Arab and regional security. According to statements by the Palestinian Foreign Ministry, it maintains full support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and political independence in line with international law, Arab and global consensus, and the decisions of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The ministry further warned that legitimizing secession by recognizing Somaliland jeopardizes Somalia’s stability and sovereignty, framing the move as part of “Israel’s broader efforts to destabilize regional and international peace.” Reports also note that Israel has previously suggested relocating Palestinians, particularly from Gaza, to Somaliland.

Egypt joined the regional condemnation, coordinating with partners to counter the recognition. As reported, Egypt’s Foreign Minister engaged in discussions with counterparts from Somalia, Türkiye, and Djibouti regarding the “dangerous developments” in the Horn of Africa following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland. These leaders collectively expressed “complete rejection and condemnation” of the move, reaffirming their support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. They also warned against any unilateral actions that could threaten Somalia’s stability, cautioned about the precedent of recognizing parts of sovereign states as independent, and highlighted the importance of adhering to the UN Charter and international law.

Israel’s recognition marks the first time any country has formally acknowledged Somaliland as a sovereign state. Since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland has functioned as a de facto autonomous region with its own political, administrative, and security structures.

Despite this, it has struggled to gain formal international recognition, and the Somali government continues to reject its independence, viewing the region as an integral part of the country. Any direct engagement with Somaliland, from Somalia’s perspective, constitutes a violation of its sovereignty and national unity.

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