Mogadishu, January 1, 2026 — The Federal Government of Somalia has expressed formal gratitude to more than 70 countries and international organisations for reaffirming their support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.
In an official statement issued this week, the government said the broad international backing demonstrated “clear and unequivocal” solidarity with Somalia, with positions voiced at the highest diplomatic levels, including the United Nations Security Council. Mogadishu described the support as critical at what it called a sensitive moment for the country’s unity.
The statement highlighted several countries for their prominent political and diplomatic engagement, naming Pakistan, Türkiye and the United Kingdom as among those that played a leading role in defending Somalia’s territorial integrity in international forums.
Somalia also welcomed the unified stance taken by major international and regional organisations, including the United Nations, the African Union (AU), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the Arab League and the European Union. These bodies, the government said, reaffirmed their commitment to respecting Somalia’s internationally recognised borders and national sovereignty.
At the same time, the statement noted the absence of some neighbouring countries — specifically Ethiopia and Kenya — from the list of states that publicly declared their support. The government said this omission had raised questions among observers, particularly given the regional sensitivity surrounding the issue.
The message of appreciation comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel had formally recognised Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been internationally recognised. Somalia has strongly condemned the move, arguing that it violates international law and the principles of state sovereignty enshrined in the UN Charter.
Public protests have taken place in several Somali cities since the announcement, with demonstrators denouncing Israel’s decision as an attempt to undermine Somalia’s unity. The federal government reiterated that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia under international law and said it remains firmly opposed to any actions that threaten the country’s territorial integrity.
In its statement, the government reaffirmed its commitment to defending Somalia’s sovereignty and thanked all international partners who demonstrated solidarity, calling on the global community to continue supporting Somalia’s peace, stability and statehood.
