Israel announced on Sunday, November 1, 2026, that its ambassador, Michael Lotem, has presented his credentials to the President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi. The ceremony, which took place at the presidential palace in Hargeisa, marks a significant step in strengthening ties between Israel and the breakaway region. This move comes after Israel recognized Somaliland as an independent state on December 26, 2025.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated that the ceremony was an additional step in enhancing relations between the two parties. Following the presentation of credentials, the cornerstone was laid for the Israeli embassy in Hargeisa, although no date has been set for its opening. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar emphasized that Tel Aviv is committed to strengthening its relations with Somaliland.
The development has been met with resistance from the Somali federal government, which considers Somaliland an integral part of its territory. Somalia described Israel's recognition of Somaliland as an unlawful and invalid move that has no legal or political implications. The African Union also rejected the recognition, stressing that Somaliland is part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) condemned Israel's recognition of Somaliland in January, calling it a blatant violation of Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The OIC urged countries and international organizations to refrain from any official dealings with Somaliland outside the framework of Somali sovereignty.
In January, Israeli Foreign Minister Sa'ar visited Somaliland, while Somaliland's Foreign Minister, Abdulkadir Ahmed, visited Israel in June, during which he opened a Somaliland embassy in occupied Jerusalem. The move sparked Arab and Islamic criticism, given the international community's non-recognition of Israel's annexation of East Jerusalem in 1967.
During his June visit, the Somaliland Foreign Minister expressed openness to military cooperation with Israel, including the potential establishment of Israeli military bases in Somaliland. This has raised concerns about the possible use of Somaliland as a destination for the displacement of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.
Somaliland has been de facto independent since its declaration of separation from Somalia in 1991, although it has not gained widespread international recognition. Israel's recognition of Somaliland in December 2025 drew extensive regional and international condemnation.
Key points
- Israel's ambassador presents credentials to Somaliland's president.
- Israel proceeds with establishing an embassy in Somaliland despite Somalia's objections.
- The move sparks concerns about potential military cooperation and displacement of Palestinians.
