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Israel Becomes First UN Member to Recognize Somaliland as an Independent State

Whether other governments follow remains uncertain after immediate regional backlash.

Overview

  • Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced formal recognition and said Israel will move at once to expand cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology and the economy.
  • Somaliland’s government welcomed the decision, stated it will seek to join the Abraham Accords, and signaled plans for full diplomatic relations, including embassies and ambassadors.
  • Somalia, Egypt, Turkey and Djibouti issued a joint condemnation defending Somalia’s territorial integrity, and the Arab League labeled the move provocative and contrary to international law.
  • Israeli security analysts highlighted Somaliland’s position by the Bab el Mandeb and Red Sea as a key strategic factor, including proximity to Houthi-held areas in Yemen.
  • U.S. President Donald Trump said he will not recognize Somaliland for now but will study the issue, leaving Washington’s stance open-ended.