Overview
- Israel's cabinet approved veteran diplomat Michael Lotem as the first ambassador to Somaliland after a proposal by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar.
- The Foreign Ministry said Lotem will begin in a non-resident role, which allows formal ties without opening a full embassy.
- The cabinet decision was part of a wider round of postings that also named new envoys to Singapore, according to Israeli media.
- Israel recognized Somaliland in December 2025, becoming the only country to grant the breakaway region formal recognition.
- Talks since recognition have focused on security, trade and regional stability, with diplomatic sources also pointing to possible defense and infrastructure projects.