In a shift for Horn of Africa diplomacy, Israel has officially recognized the Republic of Somaliland as a sovereign and independent state. The announcement, made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on December 26, 2025, marks the first time a United Nations member state has extended formal recognition to the territory since it declared independence from Somalia in 1991.
The Israeli government stated the decision was made “in the spirit of the Abraham Accords,” citing shared strategic interests and a commitment to regional stability. Following the announcement, Israeli and Somaliland officials signed an agreement to establish full diplomatic relations, which includes the eventual opening of embassies and cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and healthcare. Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi welcomed the move as a historic validation of the region’s 34-year quest for international legitimacy.
The recognition has prompted significant international reaction. The Federal Government of Somalia condemned the move as a “flagrant assault” on its territorial integrity and sovereignty, maintaining that Somaliland remains an integral part of its territory. On December 29, the United Nations Security Council convened an emergency meeting at the request of Somalia, Algeria, and other nations to discuss the implications of the move. Representatives from the African Union and the Arab League also expressed opposition, warning that unilateral recognition could destabilize the region and set a precedent for other separatist movements across the continent.
While Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the move as a step toward expanding its presence in the Red Sea corridor, other global powers have remained cautious. The United States government stated there has been no change in its official policy toward Somalia’s borders, though President Donald Trump noted he would “study” the development. Meanwhile, Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently denied allegations that the agreement includes the establishment of a foreign military base or the resettlement of displaced populations, asserting that the partnership focuses on mutual sovereign interests.
Somaliland, located on the Gulf of Aden, has operated with its own government, currency, and security forces for over three decades. While it has maintained informal representative ties with several nations, formal statehood remained elusive until this recent diplomatic breakthrough.
