Wayne Lumbasi
The government of Somalia has strongly condemned plans by Somaliland to open an “embassy” in Jerusalem following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.
In a sharply worded statement issued this week, Somalia’s federal government described the move as a violation of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, insisting that Somaliland remains an inseparable part of Somalia under international law.
The diplomatic dispute escalated after Somaliland’s envoy to Israel, Mohamed Hagi, announced that Somaliland would soon establish diplomatic representation in Jerusalem, while Israel is expected to open an embassy in Somaliland’s capital, Hargeisa.
The development comes months after Israel formally recognized Somaliland in December 2025, becoming the first United Nations member state to recognize the breakaway region since it declared independence from Somalia in 1991.
Somalia immediately rejected Israel’s recognition, calling it a “deliberate attack” on Somali unity. Earlier this year, Somalia’s Federal Parliament passed a resolution declaring any foreign recognition of Somaliland “null and void” and without legal effect under international law.
According to Somali officials, only the federal government in Mogadishu has the authority to conduct foreign relations on behalf of the country. The government warned that any attempt by Somaliland to establish diplomatic missions abroad undermines Somalia’s internationally recognized borders and statehood.
The Jerusalem embassy announcement has also triggered criticism from several regional actors. Egypt condemned Somaliland’s planned diplomatic presence in Jerusalem, describing the step as “illegal and unacceptable.” Cairo reiterated its support for Somalia’s sovereignty and rejected any measures that could alter the status of Jerusalem outside international agreements.
The issue carries wider geopolitical implications for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region. Somaliland has increasingly sought international partnerships and diplomatic recognition through ties with countries including Israel, Taiwan and Ethiopia. Israel’s recognition has significantly elevated Somaliland’s international profile after decades of diplomatic isolation.
Reports indicate that cooperation between Israel and Somaliland could expand into maritime security, water management, infrastructure and technology sectors. Israeli officials have also signaled plans to deepen economic and strategic ties with Hargeisa following formal recognition.
Despite Somaliland operating with its own government, military, currency and institutions for more than three decades, the African Union and the broader international community continue to recognize Somalia’s territorial integrity.
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