Sunday January 4, 2026
Mogadishu (HOL) — Federal ministers and lawmakers from Somaliland on Saturday strongly condemned Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, declaring their full support for Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity.
Speaking at a news conference in Mogadishu, the officials who represent the regions of Sool, Sanaag and Awdal said Israel’s move was unacceptable and amounted to an attempt to divide Somalia. They aligned themselves with the federal government’s position, rejecting any action they said undermines the country’s sovereignty.
The ministers and members of parliament stressed that the federal government is the sole legitimate authority responsible for Somalia’s foreign policy, including decisions related to international recognition and diplomacy. They said Israel’s decision violates international norms and Somalia’s sovereignty.
The officials also distanced themselves from politicians from the Hargeisa and Togdheer regions who have not publicly clarified their positions on Israel’s recognition of Somaliland. They said those statements do not represent the people of Sool, Sanaag and Awdal, regions that have long opposed Somaliland’s unilateral declaration of independence.
Calling for national unity, the group urged Somalis across the country to stand together against what they described as external efforts to fragment the nation.
They also thanked the international community and global organizations that continue to respect Somalia’s territorial integrity, saying such support remains vital as the country works to rebuild state institutions after decades of conflict.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the central government, but it has not received formal international recognition. Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland has drawn criticism from Somalia and several other countries, raising concerns about regional stability and adherence to international law.