Foreign ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have strongly rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, describing the move as a violation of international law and a threat to Somalia’s sovereignty and regional stability.
The condemnation came during the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers’ 22nd extraordinary session, held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah. The meeting was convened to address developments in the Federal Republic of Somalia following Israel’s decision to recognize the self-declared Somaliland region as an independent state.
Opening the session, OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha said the meeting was taking place at a “very delicate and sensitive time,” warning that Israel’s recognition constituted a dangerous precedent, a flagrant violation of international law, and a direct threat to peace and security in the Horn of Africa. He stressed that the move undermines Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and internationally recognized borders.
The secretary-general noted that the extraordinary session followed an earlier emergency meeting of the OIC Executive Committee held on January 1, reflecting deep concern among member states and the need for a unified and firm Islamic position in support of Somalia, grounded in the OIC Charter, international law, and relevant United Nations resolutions.
During the meeting, several member states, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan, described Israel’s decision as illegal and dangerous, calling on Islamic countries to act collectively to counter any steps that could weaken Somalia’s territorial integrity.
The Council concluded the session by adopting two resolutions. The first rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and reaffirmed full support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The second resolution addressed Israel’s continued actions against the Palestinian people, reiterating OIC demands for an end to hostilities, respect for international law, and progress toward a comprehensive ceasefire.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been recognized by the international community. Israel’s recognition has triggered strong diplomatic backlash from Somalia and broad opposition from regional and international organizations.
