Diplomacy/Israel strengthens ties with Somaliland in historic visit
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar visited Hargeisa, Somaliland’s capital, on Tuesday, the first such trip since Israel recognized the breakaway territory’s independence last month. Saar met with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to advance political and strategic partnerships.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has remained largely unrecognized globally.
Israel’s recognition sparked strong condemnation from Somalia, which views Somaliland as part of its sovereign territory, and prompted criticism from the UN Security Council, China, Turkey, and the African Union.
Israel has defended its decision, with Saar calling criticism “hypocritical” and emphasizing Somaliland’s three decades of de facto statehood.
The move aligns with Israel’s strategic interests in the Red Sea region, potentially providing a partnership against Houthi threats from Yemen.
Somaliland has expressed willingness to join the Abraham Accords, normalizing ties with Israel. Both nations plan cooperation in agriculture, health, technology, and the economy, marking a significant shift in regional diplomacy.
