Israel has become the first country in the world to formally recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state, breaking a rule African governments have upheld for more than three decades. The move angered Somalia, alarmed African leaders, and stirred debate internationally.
Announced in December 2025, the move established full diplomatic relations between Israel and Somaliland, including the opening of embassies and the appointment of ambassadors. No United Nations member state had ever recognized Somaliland as an independent country. Under the UN’s view, Somaliland remains part of Somalia.
Africa Pushes Back on Israel
The reaction from Somalia was immediate and angry. The government in Mogadishu called Israel’s decision illegal and described it as a direct attack on its right to exist as one country. Somalia insists that Somaliland is not a separate state, but an inseparable part of its national territory.
The African Union, representing 55 African
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