More than a dozen Muslim majority countries have strongly criticized Israel following its decision to appoint a diplomatic envoy to Somaliland, escalating tensions over the disputed territory’s status. In a joint statement led by Saudi Arabia, and supported by countries including Egypt, Turkey, Pakistan, and Kuwait, foreign ministers described the move as a “flagrant violation” of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The African Union also condemned the decision, warning that any unilateral recognition of Somaliland is “null and void” and could destabilize an already fragile region in the Horn of Africa.
The controversy follows Israel’s formal recognition of Somaliland in December 2025, making it the first country to do so. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not received widespread international recognition. On Wednesday, Israel named Michael Lotem, a former ambassador to Kenya, as its first envoy to the territory. In a reciprocal move, Somaliland appointed Mohamed Hagi as its first ambassador to Israel.
The diplomatic move has fueled speculation about deeper strategic cooperation, including unconfirmed reports that Israel could seek to establish a military presence in Somaliland. The region’s location along the Gulf of Aden near key shipping lanes and conflict zones such as Yemen, makes it geopolitically significant. Analysts say such a move could shift regional dynamics, particularly amid ongoing tensions involving Iran-backed groups like the Houthi rebels in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The development underscores growing geopolitical competition in the Horn of Africa, where global and regional powers are increasingly vying for influence.
