Egypt has called on the African Union to convene an emergency meeting of its Peace and Security Council following Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland, stepping up diplomatic pressure as opposition to the move grows across Africa and the Arab world.
Speaking during a virtual ministerial meeting, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty condemned Israel’s recognition as a violation of international law, the United Nations Charter and the African Union’s Constitutive Act.
Abdelatty warned that the move threatens peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, a region already facing political fragility, security challenges and competing regional interests.
He urged the African Union to adopt a unified and unequivocal position rejecting what Egypt described as a unilateral step that undermines the principle of territorial integrity, a cornerstone of the AU since its establishment.
Cairo argues that recognising breakaway regions without the consent of central governments sets a dangerous precedent that could fuel separatist movements across the continent.
Egypt’s call follows wider diplomatic efforts to rally opposition to Israel’s decision. On Sunday, the Arab League held an emergency meeting in Cairo and called on the United Nations Security Council to take a firm stance, reaffirming Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial unity.
Condemnations have also been voiced by several African and Middle Eastern countries, as well as by Türkiye, a close ally of Somalia. Critics say Israel’s announcement risks escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa at a time when regional cooperation is needed to address security threats, piracy and humanitarian crises.
Somalia’s federal government has rejected Israel’s recognition, saying any engagement with Somaliland without Mogadishu’s consent violates international law. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but remains unrecognised by the United Nations and the African Union, which continue to regard it as part of Somalia.
Diplomats said Egypt is seeking a formal AU statement or resolution reaffirming Somalia’s territorial integrity and reinforcing the bloc’s opposition to recognition of breakaway regions.
The issue has revived long-standing sensitivities over borders and statehood in Africa, where fears persist that similar moves elsewhere could destabilise fragile political balances.
Any decision by the African Union’s Peace and Security Council is expected to be closely watched, with observers saying a strong response could shape wider international reactions and reaffirm the AU’s commitment to sovereignty and regional stability.
