African and Arab regional organisations have strongly condemned Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland as an independent sovereign state, describing the move as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability.
Somalia, backed by the African Union (AU), Arab League and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), rejected the recognition, asserting that Somaliland remains an inseparable part of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The AU reiterated its long-standing position that Somaliland’s status must be determined through dialogue and within the framework of Somalia’s territorial integrity, citing the principle of border intangibility upheld since African independence.
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit condemned the Israeli action as a clear breach of international norms, warning that unilateral recognitions could destabilise the Horn of Africa and undermine efforts to uphold sovereign borders. The GCC echoed these concerns, calling the recognition a dangerous precedent that could foment tensions across the region and compromise peace efforts.
Somalia’s federal government described the recognition as “null and void” under international law, and pledged to mobilise diplomatic, legal and political measures to defend its sovereignty. Mogadishu also underscored that external interference deepens security risks and could create conditions that militant groups might exploit.
Israel’s move followed its announcement of full diplomatic ties with Somaliland, framed by Israeli leaders as part of broader strategic engagement. However, the strong backlash from African and Arab states signals deep resistance to altering Somalia’s internationally recognised territorial boundaries, and highlights the complex geopolitics surrounding secessionist recognition in Africa.
