In a significant development, Israel's ambassador to Somaliland, Michael Lortem, presented his credentials to the President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, at a ceremony held at the presidential palace in Hargeisa last week. This move follows Israel's recognition of Somaliland on December 26, 2025, and the subsequent establishment of diplomatic relations between the two entities. The presentation of credentials marks a crucial step in strengthening bilateral ties.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed that the presentation of credentials is part of the implementation of the understandings reached after Israel's recognition of Somaliland. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar emphasized that his country is committed to developing and solidifying its relations with Somaliland, noting that the appointment of ambassadors is an additional step towards enhancing cooperation between the two nations.
The development comes after a series of high-level visits, including a trip by Saar to Somaliland in January 2026, followed by a visit by the President of Somaliland to Israel in June 2026, during which a Somaliland embassy was opened in occupied Jerusalem. These diplomatic efforts have been accompanied by reports of military and security cooperation between Israel and Somaliland, including the training of Somaliland security personnel.
According to Somaliland's Defense Minister, Mohamed Yusuf Ali, Israel has been providing training to police and army personnel, although he denied the presence of Israeli military forces or bases within the territory. In contrast, Israeli media reported that Israel's Security Minister, Israel Katz, revealed that the two countries have been cooperating secretly for years on unspecified operations.
The potential for further military cooperation was hinted at by the President of Somaliland during his visit to Israel, when he mentioned the possibility of establishing an Israeli military base in the territory in the future. However, no agreement on such a base has been publicly announced. The deepening of Israel-Somaliland relations has significant regional implications.
The establishment of Israel's diplomatic presence in Somaliland, including the planned construction of an Israeli embassy in Hargeisa, reflects the growing ties between the two entities. As Israel continues to expand its diplomatic and security cooperation with Somaliland, the international community is watching closely.
The new developments have sparked interest in the region, with many observers speculating about the potential implications of Israel's increasing presence in Somaliland. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the relationship between Israel and Somaliland is rapidly evolving.
Key points
- Israel's ambassador presents credentials in Somaliland, marking a new era in diplomatic relations
- Israel and Somaliland have established diplomatic relations, with Israel recognizing Somaliland on December 26, 2025
- The two countries are cooperating on military and security issues, including the training of Somaliland security personnel
