Israel Breaks New Ground: First Country to Recognise Somaliland, Stirring Regional Tensions

Israel has made history by becoming the first country to formally acknowledge the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, a move that has sparked a heated backlash from its neighbours in the Horn of Africa. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the recognition as a significant step forward, aligning with the spirit of the Abraham Accords. The US-brokered agreement, initiated by former President Donald Trump, led to Israel establishing diplomatic ties with the UAE and Bahrain in 2020. Netanyahu announced the recognition in a statement, signing a joint declaration with Somaliland's President Dr Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah. The Israeli PM expressed his admiration for Abdallah's leadership and commitment to promoting stability and peace. Netanyahu also extended an invitation to Abdallah for an official visit to Israel, with plans to expand bilateral cooperation in key areas such as agriculture, health, technology, and the economy. The move to recognise Somaliland has sparked concerns about regional dynamics and the potential for instability in the Horn of Africa. Somaliland has enjoyed a degree of autonomy and relative peace since 1991, but its bid for international recognition has been met with resistance from Somalia. The situation has been further complicated by reports that Somaliland was in talks with Israel over the potential resettlement of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. However, both Somaliland and Somalia have denied receiving any proposal from Israel or the US. The international community has voiced its concerns over Israel's recognition of Somaliland. Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held phone calls with his counterparts from Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti, condemning Israel's move and reaffirming their support for Somalia's unity and territorial integrity. They warned that the recognition of breakaway regions could pose a threat to international peace and security.