THIS DAWN — In a landmark diplomatic development, the Republic of Somaliland has announced that it has received official recognition from the State of Israel. The declaration, issued by the Office of the President of Somaliland on December 26, 2025, marks a significant milestone in Somaliland’s decades-long quest for international legitimacy and statehood. The recognition also paves the way for the establishment of full diplomatic relations between the two nations, signaling a new era of cooperation in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East.
Historical Context
Somaliland, a self-declared republic in the northwestern region of Somalia, has operated as a de facto independent state since 1991 following the collapse of Somalia’s central government. Despite maintaining its own government, military, currency, and democratic institutions, Somaliland has struggled to gain formal recognition from the international community.
Israel’s recognition is one of the most high-profile endorsements of Somaliland’s sovereignty to date. It follows years of quiet engagement and shared strategic interests, particularly in maritime security, counterterrorism, and regional stability.
Official Declaration
The declaration from President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) expressed deep appreciation for Israel’s “historic and principled decision” to recognize Somaliland’s sovereignty and independence. The statement described the move as a reaffirmation of Somaliland’s “historical, legal, and moral entitlement to statehood” and emphasized the mutual respect and shared interests that have long underpinned relations between the two peoples.
The document also confirmed Somaliland’s intention to accede to the Abraham Accords, a U.S.-brokered framework for normalization and cooperation between Israel and several Arab and Muslim-majority countries. By joining the Accords, Somaliland signals its commitment to regional peace, economic integration, and constructive diplomacy.
Diplomatic Implications
The recognition by Israel carries significant geopolitical weight. It not only strengthens Somaliland’s case for broader international recognition but also positions the country as a strategic partner in a region marked by instability and competition for influence.
For Israel, the move expands its diplomatic footprint in East Africa and aligns with its broader strategy of building alliances beyond traditional partners. Somaliland’s location along the Gulf of Aden and its proximity to key maritime routes make it a valuable ally in terms of security and trade.
The declaration affirms that both governments will “proceed to deepen cooperation across a broad range of sectors,” including security, technology, agriculture, and education. The establishment of embassies and formal diplomatic channels is expected to follow in the coming months.
Regional Reactions
While the recognition has been welcomed by many Somalilanders and supporters of its independence, it is likely to provoke strong reactions from Somalia’s federal government, which continues to claim sovereignty over Somaliland’s territory. Somalia has historically opposed any move toward formal recognition of Somaliland and may seek to rally regional and international opposition to Israel’s decision.
However, Somaliland’s endorsement of the Abraham Accords and its emphasis on peace and cooperation may help mitigate tensions and attract support from other nations seeking stability in the Horn of Africa.
Israel’s recognition of the Republic of Somaliland marks a turning point in the region’s diplomatic landscape. It validates Somaliland’s decades of self-governance and democratic development, while offering new opportunities for international engagement and economic growth. As both nations move forward with establishing formal ties, the recognition stands as a powerful symbol of diplomacy’s ability to reshape narratives and unlock new possibilities for peace and partnership.
See the official statement below:
