Somalia Reacts Strongly Against Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland
In a dramatic turn of events, Somalia’s president has harshly criticized Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, calling it a “naked invasion” that could potentially spur separatist movements in other regions. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed a special joint session of parliament, expressing his concern over what he deems a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty, labeling Israel as an “enemy.”
Somali Leadership’s Response
During the emergency session on Sunday, Mohamud urged the Somali citizens to remain calm and urged them to defend the nation’s unity and independence amid this aggression. He stated, “I encourage the Somali people to be calm and to defend the unity and the independence of our country, which is facing this naked invasion.” The parliament voted unanimously to declare Israel’s recognition as “null and void.” Although this resolution is primarily symbolic, it underscores Somalia’s ongoing claims over Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991.
The resolution warns that any individuals or organizations infringing upon Somalia’s sovereignty would face legal repercussions, in accordance with both national and international law. It also mandates that the government raise this issue with key international bodies, including the United Nations and the African Union.
The Context of Israeli Recognition
On Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that his country had established full diplomatic relations with Somaliland. He framed this decision as part of the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords, which aimed to normalize ties between Israel and several Arab nations. This acknowledgment makes Israel the first country to officially recognize Somaliland, which has sought international legitimacy for over three decades without success.
Concerns Over Regional Stability
President Mohamud accused Netanyahu of attempting to replicate Middle Eastern conflicts within Somalia. He emphasized that Somalia would not permit its territory to be used as a military base for attacks against other countries. The president called for unity among the Somali people, urging them to transcend tribal and regional disputes to confront what he labeled an “existential threat” to the nation’s integrity. “We need to combine our wisdom and strengths to defend our existence and sovereignty,” he stated.
Reactions from Somaliland and Beyond
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Barre noted that Israel seemed to be looking for a “foothold in the Horn of Africa,” urging Israel to acknowledge a Palestinian state instead. In contrast, Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known as Cirro, defended the recognition, arguing that it was not a threat to neighboring countries and that Somaliland stood for values of moderation, justice, and coexistence.
On the international front, the Israeli decision attracted significant criticism. A joint statement from 21 Arab and African nations, alongside the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, denounced Israel’s move as a severe violation of international law and the UN Charter. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also voiced its support for Somalia.
Regional Support for Somalia
Regional leaders, including the presidents of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Djibouti, reached out to Mohamud to reaffirm their solidarity with Somalia’s territorial integrity. Eritrea even called on China to act at the UN Security Council regarding this issue, drawing parallels to the situation between China and Taiwan.
While the European Union issued a statement advocating for respect for Somalia’s sovereignty, it stopped short of condemning Israel’s actions. Instead, it encouraged dialogue between the authorities in Mogadishu and Hargeisa.
Somaliland’s Historical Background
Somaliland has been functioning as a self-declared republic since its separation from Somalia in 1991, emerging from a civil war under the military regime of Siad Barre. It has its own constitution, currency, and flag, controlling parts of northwestern Somalia while its eastern regions remain under the influence of opposing Somali administrations.
When questioned by the New York Post about recognizing Somaliland, former U.S. President Donald Trump responded with “no,” indicating that the matter was still under consideration, questioning, “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?” The UN Security Council is poised to deliberate on Israel’s recognition of Somaliland in an upcoming meeting.
Conclusion
Somalia is navigating a complex geopolitical landscape as it confronts Israel’s controversial recognition of Somaliland. This situation raises critical questions about national sovereignty, regional security, and international diplomacy. As the discussions progress, the ramifications of these events will likely shape the future of Somalia and its relationships within the Horn of Africa.
- Somalia’s president has condemned Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an assault on national sovereignty.
- The parliament unanimously declared the Israeli recognition as null and void.
- Regional leaders have pledged support for Somalia’s territorial integrity.
- The situation raises significant concerns about potential regional instability and the implications for international law.