Israel Announces Recognition of Somaliland as Independent State

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that Israel has officially recognized the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state.

A joint declaration was signed by Prime Minister Netanyahu, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, and Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi.

Netanyahu said Israel plans to immediately expand its relations with Somaliland, focusing on cooperation in agriculture, health, technology, and the economy. He congratulated the Somaliland president and leadership, praising their commitment to stability and peace in the region, and invited the president to make an official visit to Israel.

President Abdullahi thanked Netanyahu for the announcement and expressed appreciation for Israel’s efforts in counterterrorism and promoting regional peace.

Netanyahu also thanked Foreign Minister Sa’ar, Mossad, and its director David Barnea for their role in achieving this development. He wished the people of Somaliland success, prosperity, and freedom.

Somaliland broke away from Somalia in the early 1990s and declared independence. However, it is still not officially recognized by most countries.