Israel has formally recognized Somaliland as an independent state, becoming the first country to do so more than three decades after the territory declared its separation from Somalia.
The decision marks a major diplomatic breakthrough for Somaliland, a self-governing region in the Horn of Africa with a population of over three million people. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the Siad Barre regime but has since operated without international recognition, despite maintaining its own government, security forces, currency, and democratic elections.
Israeli officials confirmed the recognition on Friday, describing Somaliland as a “stable and reliable partner” in a volatile region. The move is widely seen as part of Israel’s broader strategy to deepen its diplomatic and security footprint in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa, a region of growing geopolitical importance due to global shipping routes and regional rivalries.
Somaliland authorities welcomed the announcement, calling it a historic moment that validates decades of efforts to gain international legitimacy. Government representatives said recognition by Israel could open the door for further diplomatic ties, trade agreements, and security cooperation with other states.
Somalia’s federal government strongly rejected the move, reiterating that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somali territory under international law. Mogadishu has consistently opposed any unilateral recognition of Somaliland, warning that such actions undermine Somalia’s sovereignty and regional stability.
African Union policy has long favoured Somalia’s territorial integrity, and no AU member state has officially recognised Somaliland. However, analysts say Israel’s decision could test that consensus and intensify debate within international forums about Somaliland’s political status.
Despite the lack of recognition, Somaliland has often been cited as a rare example of relative stability in a region plagued by conflict, piracy, and extremist violence. It has held multiple competitive elections and maintained internal security while neighbouring Somalia continues to battle insurgency and political fragmentation.
Whether Israel’s recognition triggers a wider diplomatic shift remains uncertain, but it represents the most significant international endorsement Somaliland has received since its declaration of independence in 1991.
