Israel has officially recognised the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, marking a significant diplomatic milestone and a major shift in regional relations.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the decision on Friday, confirming that Israel and Somaliland formalised the move through a joint and mutual declaration signed alongside Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, and the President of the Republic of Somaliland, Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah.
According to Netanyahu, the declaration aligns with the spirit of the Abraham Accords, which were initiated under the leadership of former United States President Donald Trump to promote peace and cooperation across the region.
“I announced today the official recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state,” Netanyahu said. “Together with Foreign Minister Sa’ar and the President of the Republic of Somaliland, we signed a joint and mutual declaration.”
The Israeli leader praised President Abdallah for what he described as his leadership and dedication to stability and peace, while extending an invitation to him to make an official visit to Israel.
“I congratulated the President of Somaliland, Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah, and praised his leadership and commitment to promoting stability and peace,” Netanyahu said. “I invited the President to pay an official visit to Israel.”
Netanyahu disclosed that the Somaliland leader welcomed the recognition, describing it as historic, and expressed gratitude for Israel’s role in counterterrorism efforts and regional peacebuilding.
“The President thanked me for this historic declaration and expressed appreciation for my achievements in fighting terrorism and advancing regional peace,” he added.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the contributions of key Israeli officials and institutions to the diplomatic breakthrough.
“I thank Foreign Minister Sa’ar, the Head of Mossad, David Barnea, and the Mossad, for their contribution to today’s development,” Netanyahu said, while extending goodwill to the people of Somaliland. “I wish the people of Somaliland success, prosperity, and freedom.”
Looking ahead, Netanyahu said Israel intends to immediately deepen its engagement with Somaliland through broad-based cooperation across strategic sectors.
“The State of Israel plans to immediately expand its relations with the Republic of Somaliland through extensive cooperation in the fields of agriculture, health, technology, and economy,” he said.
The recognition positions Israel as one of the first countries to formally acknowledge Somaliland’s sovereignty since it declared independence in 1991, a move that is expected to reshape diplomatic and economic ties in the Horn of Africa.
