Why did Israel Recognise Somaliland Now? Inside the Historic Move Shaking Africa and the Middle East

In a historic diplomatic breakthrough, Israel has become the first country in the world to formally recognise Somaliland as a sovereign state, more than three decades after the territory declared independence from Somalia. The announcement, made on Friday, December 26, 2025, marks a turning point in Somaliland’s long-running quest for international recognition and has already sparked strong regional backlash.

The decision was confirmed by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who said Israel and Somaliland had signed an agreement establishing full diplomatic relations, including the exchange of ambassadors and the opening of embassies.

A Long-Awaited Breakthrough for Somaliland

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of Somalia’s central government. Despite operating as a de facto state for 34 years, with its own government, security forces, elections and borders, it had never been recognised by any United Nations member state until now.

The self-governing territory occupies the north-west region of Somalia, bordering Djibouti to the northwest and Ethiopia to the west and south. With a population of over 6.2 million people, Somaliland has often been cited as one of the most stable political entities in the Horn of Africa.

Israel–Somaliland Agreement and Abraham Accords Context

Israel’s prime minister’s office said the recognition was made “in the spirit of the Abraham Accords,” the normalization framework Israel launched in 2020 with several Arab states.

A video released by Israeli officials showed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaking directly with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, calling the relationship “historic” and inviting him to visit Israel. Abdullahi responded that he would be “glad to be in Jerusalem as soon as possible.”

Sa’ar confirmed the recognition followed a year of negotiations, adding that Israel’s foreign ministry had been instructed to immediately institutionalise diplomatic ties.

Why Somaliland Matters to Israel Strategically

Israeli security analysts say the move is not purely symbolic. Somaliland’s strategic location near Yemen has drawn growing interest from regional and global powers.

Israel has conducted extensive airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen over the past two years. According to a November report by Israel’s Institute for National Security Studies, Somaliland could serve as:

• An intelligence hub monitoring Houthi activity
• A logistics base supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government
• A platform for direct or indirect regional operations

Somaliland already hosts a UAE military base in Berbera, complete with a port and airstrip, widely viewed as central to the Emirates’ anti-Houthi operations.

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Strong Condemnation from Somalia, Egypt, Turkey and Djibouti

The recognition triggered immediate diplomatic backlash. In a joint response coordinated by Egypt, the foreign ministers of Somalia, Egypt, Turkey and Djibouti condemned Israel’s move.

Egypt’s foreign ministry said the countries “affirmed their total rejection” of the recognition and reiterated support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Turkey accused Israel of interfering in Somalia’s internal affairs, while Egypt linked the move to Israel’s broader regional policies.

US Debate and Global Implications

While Israel is the first to recognise Somaliland, the issue is gaining traction in Washington. Somaliland President Abdullahi revealed earlier this year that US military officials had visited the territory.

The US think-tank policy blueprint Project 2025 has advocated recognising Somaliland as a hedge against China’s growing influence in Djibouti, where Beijing maintains a major military base.

However, the US administration remains divided, with concerns that recognition could damage counter-terrorism cooperation with Somalia, where American forces assist in fighting al-Shabaab.

Democracy, Stability, and Rising Concerns

Somaliland has held peaceful elections and power transitions, earning praise as a rare democratic success story in the region. However, watchdog group Freedom House recently warned of an erosion of political rights, citing repression of journalists and opposition figures.

Despite these concerns, Israel’s recognition is widely viewed as a watershed moment that could open the door for other nations to follow.

FAQ

What is Somaliland?

Somaliland is a self-declared state in north-west Somalia that has governed itself independently since 1991.

Is Somaliland internationally recognised?

As of December 2025, Israel is the first UN member state to formally recognise Somaliland.

Why did Israel recognise Somaliland?

Israel cited diplomatic engagement, regional stability and strategic interests, particularly Somaliland’s proximity to Yemen.

How did Somalia respond to Israel’s decision?

Somalia strongly condemned the move, calling it a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Which countries opposed Israel’s recognition of Somaliland?

Somalia, Egypt, Turkey and Djibouti jointly rejected the recognition.

Does Somaliland have a military base?

Yes. The UAE operates a military base in Berbera, including an airstrip and port.

Will the US recognise Somaliland next?

The US remains divided. Some policymakers support recognition, while others fear it could harm relations with Somalia.

How long has Somaliland sought recognition?

Somaliland has pursued international recognition for 34 years since declaring independence in 1991.

Is Somaliland stable compared to Somalia?

Yes. Somaliland has experienced relative stability, democratic elections and peaceful power transfers.

What could happen next?

Israel’s move may encourage other countries to reconsider Somaliland’s status, reshaping Horn of Africa geopolitics.