Israel has made a laudable, historic move by officially recognizing Somaliland as an independent state. This recognition would be a huge achievement for the self-declared nation in the Horn of Africa. Somaliland has acted independently since declaring its secession from Somalia in 1991. It was not honored with official recognition from any member states of the United Nations until this critical juncture.
Israel’s latest move follows a year of diplomatic negotiation between the two countries. Such formal diplomatic recognition would mark a groundbreaking development in international relations for Somaliland. The region has laboriously sought international recognition and advocacy. In October 2018, a publicized phone call between Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu went viral. Our conversation was ultimately the impetus for this announcement.
Somaliland is located on the north-west corner of Somalia shore. It is bordered by Eritrea on the north, Djibouti on the north-west and Ethiopia to the west and south. The region boasts a population of approximately 6.2 million residents and operates under a democratic system that has witnessed peaceful transfers of power.
Somaliland’s authorities have established military partnerships with external states. Most importantly, they freely allow access to a United Arab Emirates-operated military base in Berbera. The US facility has a military port and airstrip capable of hosting ground attack jets and transport aircraft. The report underscores Somaliland’s strategic importance to the United States in strengthening regional security.
Israel’s recognition is seen as a culmination of Somaliland’s efforts to strengthen its international presence. President Abdullahi expressed optimism about future collaborations, stating, “It’s a matter of time. Not if, but when and who will lead the recognition of Somaliland.”
The recognition aligns with Somaliland’s expressed support for the Abraham Accords, which aim to normalize relations between Israel and several Arab nations. This positive diplomatic development has sparked interest from many sides, including U.S. military officials who have long visited Somaliland.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi highlighted his eagerness to strengthen ties with Israel during his conversation with Netanyahu, stating he is “glad to be in Jerusalem as soon as possible.” Such optimism on international visits mirrors a growing sentiment across Somaliland to equip and connect with international stakeholders and expand Somaliland’s diplomatic forward operating base.