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Israeli foreign minister visits Somaliland in historic trip
Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar met with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi on Wednesday, marking the first high-level Israeli visit to the self-declared republic since Tel Aviv formally recognized its independence last month.
Talks focus on deepening bilateral relations
During the meeting in Hargeisa, Saar emphasized Israel's commitment to advancing ties with Somaliland "with momentum," according to a post on X (formerly Twitter). Abdullahi described the visit as a "big day" for Somaliland, which broke away from Somalia in 1991 but remains unrecognized by most of the international community.
Saar stated that discussions covered "the entirety of our relations," while Abdullahi's office called Israel's recognition a "courageous decision" that aligned with Somaliland's "strategic interest." The Somaliland leader has reportedly accepted an invitation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit Israel, though his office has not confirmed the trip.
Somalia condemns visit as 'interference'
Somalia, which claims Somaliland as part of its territory, denounced Saar's visit as "unacceptable interference" in its internal affairs. The backlash mirrors global reactions to Israel's recognition of Somaliland in December 2025, which drew criticism from China, Turkey, the African Union, and the European Union. The EU reiterated its support for Somalia's sovereignty, while the U.S. defended Israel, accusing critics of applying "double standards."
In response to the controversy, Saar asserted that Israel's decision was not "against anyone" and that "only Israel will determine for itself who it recognizes."
Somaliland seeks broader recognition
Somaliland, which has governed itself for over three decades, hopes Israel's move will encourage other nations to follow suit. However, India dismissed as "fake" recent social media claims that it planned to recognize Somaliland. Abdullahi also expressed interest in joining the Abraham Accords, the 2020 U.S.-brokered agreement that normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states.
Strategic motives behind Israel's recognition
Analysts suggest Israel's decision is driven by geopolitical interests in the Red Sea region. A recent paper by the Institute for National Security Studies, an Israeli think tank, highlighted the potential for cooperation against Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels as a key factor. Israel has pledged to collaborate with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology, and economic development.
"Israel requires allies in the Red Sea region for many strategic reasons, among them the possibility of a future campaign against the Houthis."
Institute for National Security Studies
UN Security Council convenes over recognition
Israel's recognition of Somaliland triggered an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, where members debated the implications for regional stability. Netanyahu had previously cited Somaliland's "right to self-determination" as justification for the move, though the international community remains divided on the issue.
