The recognition of Somaliland by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is against international law, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said on Dec. 27.Israel became the world’s first country on Dec. 26 to recognise Somaliland as a sovereign state, drawing condemnation from Türkiye, and countries in Africa and the Middle East, among others.
“The illegal aggression of PM Netanyahu in recognising a part of Somalia’s Northern region is against international law,” Mohamud wrote on US social media platform X.
The Somali government refuses to recognise Somaliland as an independent state, considers it an integral part of its territory, and views any direct deals or engagement with it as a violation of the country’s sovereignty.
Saudi Arabia said Israel’s step entrenches “unilateral, separatist measures” and contradicts international law. Palestine also rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, describing it as a threat to Arab and regional security.The Palestinian Foreign Ministry said the move fits “Israel’s broader efforts to destabilise regional and international peace.”
Egypt said it coordinated with regional partners to oppose the move. Kuwait also rejected the recognition, calling it a measure that violates international law. Iraq condemned Israel’s move as a “blatant violation” of state sovereignty and international law. Jordan and Qatar also voiced firm opposition to the recognition.