On Tuesday, the Arab League strongly condemned Israel’s foreign minister’s visit to Hargeisa, labeling it an illegitimate act that violates Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit stated that the January 6 visit aimed to legitimize Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, which he emphasized lies outside the internationally recognized framework of Somalia’s Federal Republic.
He reiterated the Arab League’s firm stance against any official or unofficial dealings with separatist entities beyond Somalia’s federal authority, viewing such actions as a “blatant violation” of Somalia’s unity.
Aboul Gheit also warned that this move could heighten political tensions within Somalia and destabilize the broader region, including the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Horn of Africa.
In a separate statement, Arab League spokesperson Gamal Rashidi mentioned that the Arab League Council had declared on December 28, 2025, that any steps toward recognizing Somaliland are null and void, noting that the visit was widely opposed at Arab and international levels.
The Arab League affirmed its commitment to supporting Somalia’s institutions to counter efforts that might undermine stability or threaten the security of key Arab maritime routes.