Protests have erupted in parts of Somalia following Israel’s reported move to recognise Somaliland, a self-declared republic that broke away from Somalia in 1991 but remains unrecognised by the international community. Demonstrators have condemned the decision as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and warned that it could further destabilise the Horn of Africa.
Crowds gathered in Mogadishu and other cities, waving Somali flags and chanting slogans in support of national unity. Protesters accused Israel of undermining Somalia’s territorial integrity and called on the international community to respect the country’s internationally recognised borders.
Somalia’s federal government has reacted sharply, reiterating that Somaliland is an integral part of the Somali state. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, authorities warned that any unilateral recognition of Somaliland risks fuelling regional tensions and setting a dangerous precedent in a region already grappling with political fragility and security challenges.
“Somaliland remains part of the Federal Republic of Somalia under international law,” the government said, adding that decisions taken without the consent of Mogadishu undermine efforts toward dialogue and long-term stability.
Somaliland declared independence more than three decades ago following the collapse of Somalia’s central government. Since then, it has maintained its own administration, security forces and electoral processes, often citing relative stability compared with southern Somalia as justification for statehood. However, the African Union, the United Nations and all UN member states officially recognise Somaliland as part of Somalia.
Analysts say Israel’s reported recognition may be linked to broader geopolitical calculations in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa region, which has become increasingly strategic due to major shipping routes, competition among global powers, and security concerns. Somaliland’s location along the Gulf of Aden has previously attracted interest from regional and international actors seeking port access and military cooperation.
The African Union has consistently warned against actions that could encourage secessionist movements on the continent. In past statements, the AU has emphasised the principle of respecting colonial-era borders, arguing that altering them could trigger wider instability.
Regional observers also caution that recognition of Somaliland without a negotiated settlement could complicate Somalia’s internal reconciliation process. Talks between Mogadishu and Hargeisa have stalled repeatedly over the years, with disagreements over power-sharing, resource control and international engagement.
Despite the protests, Somali leaders have urged calm while pursuing diplomatic channels. Officials say they are engaging regional partners, the African Union and the United Nations to reaffirm Somalia’s sovereignty and prevent escalation.
For many Somalis, the issue goes beyond diplomacy. Protesters say the recognition touches on national identity and the long struggle to rebuild a unified state after decades of conflict. As one demonstrator in Mogadishu told local media, “We may have political differences, but Somalia is one country. No foreign power should decide our future.”
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