Somalia’s Federal Government has sharply criticised an unapproved visit by Israel’s foreign minister to Hargeisa, calling it a serious breach of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The condemnation was delivered in a formal statement released on Tuesday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscoring the sensitivity of foreign engagements in contested political contexts.
According to the ministry, Hargeisa “forms an inalienable part of the internationally recognised territory of the Federal Republic of Somalia.” It stressed that any diplomatic, political, or official engagement conducted there without the explicit consent of the federal government is considered “illegal, null and void” under international law. The statement framed the visit as an infringement on Somalia’s sovereign rights and a challenge to its unity as a state recognised by the international community.
The government urged Israel to “immediately cease all actions” that could undermine Somalia’s unity or territorial integrity. In addition, Mogadishu called on key international and regional bodies — including the United Nations, the African Union, the Arab League, and bilateral partners — to reaffirm their commitment to Somalia’s internationally recognised borders and to respect established diplomatic norms.
This reaction comes against the backdrop of Somalia’s long-standing position on its territorial integrity following decades of internal conflict and political fragmentation. While Hargeisa functions as the administrative centre of Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991, no country has formally recognised it as a sovereign state. Somalia’s federal authorities have consistently maintained that all foreign relations concerning any part of its territory must be conducted through Mogadishu.
Despite the strong language, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised that Somalia remains committed to peaceful diplomacy and constructive engagement with the international community. However, it also issued a clear warning that the government reserves the right to pursue “appropriate diplomatic and legal measures” in accordance with international law to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity if such actions continue.
Somalia’s response reflects broader concerns about precedent, protocol, and respect for international borders. By escalating the issue to global and regional partners, Mogadishu is signaling that it views the matter not merely as a bilateral dispute, but as a test of international adherence to sovereignty and established diplomatic practice.
