Netanyahu makes Israel first nation in the world to recognize Somaliland

Israel has formally recognized the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, becoming the first country to do so and triggering strong reactions across the Horn of Africa. The move marks a diplomatic breakthrough for Somaliland, which has sought international recognition since breaking away from Somalia more than three decades ago.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the recognition would open the door to immediate cooperation in areas including agriculture, health, technology and economic development. In a statement, Netanyahu congratulated Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, praised his leadership and invited him to make an official visit to Israel. He said the declaration aligns with the spirit of the Abraham Accords, the U.S.-brokered agreements that normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states.

Netanyahu, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and Abdullahi signed a joint declaration of mutual recognition, according to Israel’s government. Saar later said embassies would be established in both countries and ambassadors appointed.

Abdullahi welcomed the decision, calling it a step toward greater regional and global peace. He said Somaliland intends to join the Abraham Accords and remains committed to building international partnerships, expanding economic opportunities and promoting stability across the Middle East and Africa.

The announcement drew swift condemnation from Somalia and several regional powers. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry said Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty spoke by phone with counterparts from Somalia, Turkey and Djibouti to discuss what they described as dangerous developments following Israel’s decision. The ministers reaffirmed their support for Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity and warned that recognizing breakaway regions threatens international peace and security.

Somaliland, a former British protectorate, has operated with effective autonomy since 1991, when Somalia collapsed into civil war. It has maintained its own government, currency and security forces and has enjoyed relative stability compared with much of the region. Despite that, no country had previously granted it formal recognition.

Over the years, Somalia has lobbied international partners to block any recognition of Somaliland. Officials in the breakaway region hope Israel’s move will encourage other nations to follow, boosting Somaliland’s diplomatic standing and access to global markets.

Both Somalia and Somaliland earlier this year denied reports that the United States or Israel had proposed resettling Palestinians from Gaza in the region, with Mogadishu saying it categorically rejected any such plan.

This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.

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