Jerusalem/Hargeisa: Israel has officially recognised the Republic of Somaliland as an independent nation, becoming the first country to do so more than 30 years after the region separated from Somalia. The move marks a historic diplomatic milestone for Somaliland, which has operated as a de facto state since 1991 without international recognition.
The recognition declaration was signed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, while Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi signed on behalf of his government.
Israel became the first country to formally recognize the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, a decision that could reshape regional dynamics and test Somalia’s longstanding opposition to its secession https://t.co/ugKYGTCtd5 pic.twitter.com/mgV0NqUs56
— Reuters (@Reuters) December 26, 2025
Describing the development as “historic,” Netanyahu said Israel looks forward to cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, economic growth and social development. He invited President Abdullahi for an official visit to Israel and said he would convey Somaliland’s interest in joining the Abraham Accords to former US President Donald Trump.
President Abdullahi welcomed Israel’s decision and said he would visit Israel at the earliest opportunity to advance bilateral ties.
HISTORY MADE! The world is watching. Who’s next? Congrats to the people of #Somaliland on Israel’s recognition as an independent nation!
Thank you, @IsraeliPM & @gidonsaar, for this bold, historic step! We urge ALL nations: SEE Somaliland. HEAR Somaliland. RECOGNIZE Somaliland. pic.twitter.com/EAKGjcX3la— Somaliland Teachers Association – SOLTA (@Soltateachers) December 26, 2025
Somaliland briefly gained independence in 1960 and was recognised at the time by Israel and several other nations before uniting with Somalia. After the collapse of the Somali state, it re-declared independence in 1991. While formal recognition had remained elusive, countries such as the UK, Ethiopia, Turkey, the UAE, Denmark, Kenya and Taiwan have maintained representative or liaison offices in the region.
Foreign Minister Sa’ar confirmed that both sides will open embassies and appoint ambassadors, signalling the establishment of full diplomatic relations. Netanyahu’s office also credited the Mossad and its chief David Barnea for their role in facilitating the breakthrough.
The recognition comes amid reports that Somaliland has been involved in discussions with Israel on broader regional and humanitarian issues, adding strategic weight to the decision. For Somaliland, the move brings long-awaited international legitimacy; for Israel, it strengthens its diplomatic footprint in the strategically vital Horn of Africa.
