Israel has formally recognized Somaliland as a sovereign state, marking the first nation to do so, according to Reuters.
On Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he had signed a joint declaration with Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi.
Somaliland became part of the Somali Republic in 1960, but then broke away in 1991, declaring independence and establishing a de facto state.
Despite having informal diplomatic ties with multiple nations, Somaliland’s sovereignty had never been recognized by any permanent UN member state until Friday, December 26.
In a video posted on social media, Netanyahu unveiled the recognition with a video call with Abdullahi.
“Our friendship is seminal and historic. So, I’m very, very happy and I’m very proud of this day,” the PM said.
The Prime Minister announced today the official recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, Foreign Minister Sa'ar, and the President of the Republic of Somaliland signed a joint and mutual declaration. pic.twitter.com/M0AeTs5oxY
— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) December 26, 2025
During the call, Netanyahu described the recognition as a significant step towards “expanding our partnership. We intend to work together with you on economic fields, on agriculture, and the fields of social development.”
Moreover, he invited Abdullahi to formally visit Israel and he accepted.
“I will be glad to be in Jerusalem as soon as possible,” the Somaliland president told Netanyahu.
The Israeli PM also promised Abdullahi to convey his desire to join the Abraham Accords to the US President Donald Trump.
Related Topics:
Daring Rescue: EU Forces Free Crew from Somali Pirates
Saudi Arabia Denounces Assassination Attempt on Somali President
Saudi Arabia, Somalia Forge New Labor, Security Partnership
