The European Union on Saturday reaffirmed its support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Somalia following Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland as an independent state.
In a statement issued by the EU’s External Action Service, the bloc said respect for Somalia’s unity and internationally recognised borders is essential for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, citing Somalia’s provisional constitution as well as commitments under African Union and United Nations frameworks.
The EU also called for “meaningful dialogue” between Somaliland and Somalia’s federal government to resolve long-standing disputes, without endorsing any change to Somalia’s territorial status.
Israel announced its recognition of Somaliland on December 26, becoming the first United Nations member state to formally take the step. Somalia immediately rejected the move, calling it illegal, null and void, and vowed to challenge it through diplomatic and legal channels.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the central government. It has since established its own governing institutions and security forces, but has not been recognised as a sovereign state by the United Nations or the African Union.
Regional and international reactions to Israel’s move have been swift. The African Union has reiterated its rejection of any recognition of Somaliland, warning that such actions could undermine the continent’s border framework and fuel instability.
Several Arab and Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, have also condemned the recognition, aligning themselves with Somalia’s position and stressing the importance of preserving territorial integrity.
The EU statement comes as Somalia prepares to assume the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council in early January, a role that will give Mogadishu procedural influence over the council’s agenda and meetings as the Somaliland issue gains international attention.
Somalia’s federal government has intensified diplomatic outreach to rally support from international partners, arguing that recognition of Somaliland sets a dangerous precedent and violates core principles of international law.
In Somaliland’s capital, Hargeisa, officials have welcomed Israel’s decision as a diplomatic breakthrough that could pave the way for broader international recognition and foreign investment, despite mounting regional opposition.
The EU stopped short of commenting directly on Israel’s decision, instead restating its long-held policy in support of Somalia’s unity and encouraging dialogue within Somalia’s constitutional framework.