Syria has strongly condemned Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, rejecting the move as illegal and reaffirming its full support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
In a statement issued on December 27, Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates described the recognition as a clear violation of international law and the United Nations Charter, saying it directly undermines Somalia’s sovereignty and national unity.
The ministry said the move has no legal standing or effect, stressing that it contradicts fundamental principles governing relations between states, including respect for internationally recognized borders and non-interference in internal affairs.
“Syria categorically rejects any actions that seek to legitimize separatist entities or impose faits accomplis that contravene international law,” the statement said.
Damascus warned that attempts to establish or support breakaway administrations pose a serious threat to regional security and stability, with potentially dangerous political and security consequences for the Horn of Africa.
The Syrian government reiterated its long-standing position in support of Somalia’s territorial integrity, emphasizing that the unity of sovereign states must be preserved and protected against fragmentation.
Israel’s announcement recognizing Somaliland — a self-declared region in northern Somalia — has triggered widespread condemnation across the Arab world, Africa, and parts of Asia, with multiple governments describing the move as destabilizing and unlawful.
Somalia’s federal government has rejected the recognition and launched a broad diplomatic campaign, urging international partners to uphold international law and Somalia’s internationally recognized borders.
Syria’s position aligns it with a growing bloc of states that have publicly opposed the recognition, reinforcing Mogadishu’s diplomatic efforts at a time of heightened regional sensitivity.