Somalia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has strongly condemned Israel's reported appointment of an ambassador to Hargeisa and the laying of a foundation stone for a building described as an embassy in the Somali territory. The moves were taken without the consent of the Federal Government of Somalia, which the ministry says constitutes a violation of the country's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
The ministry described the actions as null and void, saying they carried no legal effect. It reaffirmed that Hargeisa and the northwestern regions remain an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia. According to the ministry, the establishment of diplomatic relations and the opening of permanent diplomatic missions require the consent of the sovereign state concerned, in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
The latest developments follow Israel's recognition of Somaliland, announced in December 2025. The African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the Arab League, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation had rejected this recognition. The ministry warned that actions encouraging fragmentation and disregarding internationally recognized borders could further heighten security tensions in the region, particularly around the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Somalia's Foreign Ministry called on Israel to immediately reverse the measures and urged governments and international organizations to reject them and avoid any action that could lend them legitimacy. The government also said it reserved the right to take appropriate diplomatic, political, and legal measures, in accordance with international law, to defend the country's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
The ministry stressed that Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected, adding that the unity of the Somali people was not open to negotiation. The condemnation comes as Somalia continues to navigate its complex relationships with neighboring countries and international partners.
The government's response reflects its commitment to protecting the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The situation remains a sensitive issue, with potential implications for regional stability and security.
The international community is expected to take a stance on the matter, with Somalia seeking support for its position. The country's diplomatic efforts will likely focus on rallying support from African and Middle Eastern countries.
Key points
- Somalia's Foreign Ministry condemns Israel's actions as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- The African Union and other regional organizations have rejected Israel's recognition of Somaliland.
- Somalia reserves the right to take diplomatic, political, and legal measures to defend its sovereignty.
