Somalia’s National Consultations: What You Need to Know on Somaliland Row

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has launched high-level national consultations with former heads of state, veteran politicians, lawmakers, and religious leaders as part of an intensified effort to defend the country’s sovereignty, territorial unity, and political stability, the presidency said on Saturday.

The consultations come amid heightened diplomatic tensions following Israel’s controversial recognition of Somaliland, a self-declared region in northern Somalia that Mogadishu considers an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

According to officials familiar with the meetings, discussions focused on the overall political and security situation, with particular emphasis on safeguarding Somalia’s territorial integrity and coordinating a unified national response to what the government has described as an unlawful violation of its sovereignty.

President Hassan Sheikh underscored the importance of national unity and inclusive dialogue, praising the role of former national leaders and senior political figures in offering guidance during critical moments in the country’s history. He stressed that the defense of Somalia’s independence and unity transcends political differences and requires a collective national effort.

“Protecting Somalia’s sovereignty is a shared national responsibility that rises above partisan politics,” the president said, according to a statement from his office.

In parallel, the president held separate meetings with members of both houses of parliament representing northern regions, as well as prominent Somali religious scholars, reflecting a broader strategy to consolidate internal consensus across political, regional, and social lines.

The consultations were complemented by telephone diplomacy, with President Hassan Sheikh engaging leaders from neighboring countries, international partners, and multilateral organizations to reinforce Somalia’s position under international law and mobilize diplomatic support.

Somalia has rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as legally invalid, citing the United Nations Charter, African Union principles, and international norms that uphold the territorial integrity of sovereign states. Several regional and international actors — including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Kuwait, and the Arab League — have publicly reaffirmed their support for Somalia’s unity.

Analysts say the consultations signal Mogadishu’s intent to present a coherent national front as it escalates diplomatic engagement at regional and global levels.

The presidency indicated that the consultations will continue in the coming days as Somalia seeks to strengthen internal cohesion while pursuing diplomatic, political, and legal avenues to protect its internationally recognized borders.