The Republic of Somaliland has announced plans to open its first-ever embassy in Jerusalem, marking a significant diplomatic development following its growing relationship with Israel.
The announcement was made by Somaliland’s ambassador to Israel, Mohamed Hagi, who confirmed that the new embassy will be located in Jerusalem. He also disclosed that Israel is expected to open a diplomatic mission in Hargeisa, Somaliland’s capital.
According to Hagi, the move reflects “growing friendship, mutual respect and strategic cooperation” between both sides, signalling a deepening of political and diplomatic engagement.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, welcomed the decision, describing it as an important step in strengthening bilateral relations and reaffirming Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, remains internationally unrecognised by most countries despite maintaining its own government, currency, military and administrative institutions. Israel became the first country to formally recognise Somaliland in December 2025, a move that has since sparked international debate.
The decision has drawn concern from several countries and regional organisations, including the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, which warned that such developments could increase tensions in the Horn of Africa and beyond.
Strategically located along the Gulf of Aden near key global shipping routes, Somaliland has gained growing geopolitical importance amid instability in the Red Sea corridor and ongoing maritime security threats linked to Houthi attacks on commercial vessels.
Analysts say the development reflects broader regional realignments involving Israel and its expanding diplomatic outreach in Africa, alongside shifting security and trade interests in the Horn of Africa.
If established, the Somaliland embassy in Jerusalem would become one of only a handful of diplomatic missions in the city, joining countries such as the United States and Guatemala, while most nations continue to keep their embassies in Tel Aviv pending a final resolution on Jerusalem’s status.
The move is expected to intensify diplomatic discussions around recognition, regional stability, and the future of Somaliland’s international standing.
