Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has strongly condemned Israel’s recognition of the Somaliland region, calling it an “unacceptable attack” on Somalia’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
Addressing both houses of the Federal Parliament in a historic joint session on Sunday, President Mohamud described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision as a “direct assault” on Somalia’s nationhood and a “move that fuels extremist groups and threatens regional stability.” He warned against the potential “export of Israel’s aggressive actions into Somalia.”
“The action taken by Netanyahu is unacceptable and represents a clear breach of international law, directly threatening the sovereignty, independence, and unity of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” the president stated. He reiterated that the northern regions, known as Somaliland, are an inseparable part of Somalia and emphasized that the government’s position on national unity remains unwavering. “Any attempt to divide the country will be firmly resisted,” he added.
President Mohamud highlighted that both the Somali government and its citizens are prepared to defend the nation’s unity by all available means and called on political leaders to present a united front at this sensitive moment for Somalia and the Horn of Africa.
The president also reiterated Somalia’s longstanding support for the Palestinian people, condemning ongoing violations and rejecting the forced displacement of civilians. “Somalia will not allow its territory to be used for conflict or destabilization,” he said, affirming the country’s commitment to regional and global peace.
Israel announced on December 26 that it recognized Somaliland as an independent state, becoming the first UN member country to do so. The move has prompted a wave of international criticism. The Arab League, European Union, Gulf Cooperation Council, African Union, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and several countries, including Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Iran, and Nigeria, have all reaffirmed Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
President Mohamud welcomed the regional and international support, citing backing from Arab, African, and global partners. He called on friendly nations and international organizations to support Somalia’s diplomatic and legal efforts to counter the recognition and safeguard the country’s independence, unity, and existence. Somalia is expected to raise the issue at the United Nations and other international forums in the coming days, including the UN Security Council, where it will assume the rotating presidency in early January.
