Egypt has spearheaded a wave of regional condemnation following Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland as an independent state, a move that has triggered sharp diplomatic backlash across Africa and the Arab world.
The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on 28 December denouncing Israel’s recognition as a “provocative and unlawful act” that undermines Somalia’s sovereignty and violates international law.
Cairo stressed that Somaliland remains an inseparable part of Somalia and warned that Israel’s actions risk destabilising the Horn of Africa.
Egypt’s stance was echoed by the Arab League, whose Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit described the recognition as a “flagrant infringement” on the sovereignty of an Arab and African nation. He urged member states to stand united against what he termed an “assault on regional stability.”
Somalia’s government also reacted strongly, with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Omar accusing Israel of pursuing Somaliland’s recognition as part of a broader plan to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza.
“This will never be acceptable or tolerable to our government and people,” Omar said, pledging to challenge Israel’s move through diplomatic channels.
The African Union joined the wave of condemnation, reaffirming its commitment to the 1964 Cairo Declaration, which enshrines the principle of maintaining inherited borders.
AU Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf warned that recognising Somaliland would set a dangerous precedent for separatist movements across the continent.
Despite the backlash, Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known locally as Cirro, defended Israel’s recognition, insisting it was “not directed against any state” and posed no threat to peace.
In Hargeisa, thousands celebrated the announcement, waving flags and projecting the Israeli flag onto public buildings, marking what many saw as the end of three decades of diplomatic isolation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu framed the recognition as part of the Abraham Accords, pledging to champion Somaliland’s cause in upcoming talks with US President Donald Trump. However, Trump distanced himself from Netanyahu’s position, stating he would not follow Israel’s lead.
Analysts warn that Israel’s move could deepen divisions in Somalia, strain relations with Arab and Muslim-majority states, and embolden separatist movements elsewhere in Africa.
Egypt’s leadership in rallying the opposition highlights the geopolitical stakes, as the Horn of Africa remains a strategically vital region for global trade and security.
Sources: Al Jazeera, Middle East Eye, African Union statements, Arab League communiqués
