Tel Aviv (Somalia Today) — Israel formally recognised the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, as an independent and sovereign nation on Friday, a historic diplomatic breakthrough that could redraw the political map of the Horn of Africa.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” cemented the move in a video conference today, signing a mutual declaration that establishes full diplomatic ties.
The agreement, which Israeli officials framed as an extension of the Abraham Accords, paves the way for the immediate exchange of ambassadors and the opening of embassies.
“The State of Israel plans to immediately expand its relations with the Republic of Somaliland,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement, citing planned cooperation in agriculture, technology, and security.
Strategic alignment
The deal marks a significant geopolitical shift in a region vital to global shipping and security.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said the agreement followed “extensive and ongoing dialogue” over the past year.
He instructed the foreign ministry to act immediately to institutionalize ties, emphasizing the potential for “regional stability and economic prosperity.”
For Israel, the partnership secures a new ally on the Red Sea, a critical maritime artery. The move also acknowledges Somaliland’s de facto autonomy, which it has maintained since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991.
Netanyahu praised President Irro’s leadership and his “commitment to promoting stability and peace,” inviting the Somaliland leader to pay an official visit to Israel.
‘A new chapter’
In Hargeisa, the presidency hailed the recognition as a validation of Somaliland’s three-decade quest for international legitimacy.
“The Government of Israel has officially recognized the independence of the Republic of Somaliland,” the presidency confirmed in a statement released shortly after the signing.
President Irro called the declaration a “new and historic chapter” that opens the door to international cooperation on security and economic development.
He specifically thanked Netanyahu for his role in “fighting terrorism,” a likely reference to shared security concerns in a region grappling with instability.
Somaliland, a former British protectorate, merged with Italian Somalia in 1960 but broke away in 1991 after the collapse of the Siad Barre regime.
While it has maintained its own government, currency, and security forces for over 30 years, it had until now lacked formal recognition from any UN member state.
Regional implications
However, the agreement is expected to face strong opposition from Mogadishu, which considers Somaliland part of its territory.
But the deal leverages Somaliland’s strategic assets, including the port of Berbera, which has already attracted major investment from global operator DP World.
Israeli officials notably thanked Mossad Director David Barnea for his contribution to the deal, hinting at the quiet security cooperation that likely preceded the formal announcement.
The two sides agreed to launch a “new phase of hope” that includes immediate cooperation on water management, agriculture, and technology—sectors where Israel is a global leader, and Somaliland faces critical needs.
