UN Security Council to hold emergency meeting over Israel’s Somaliland recognition

The United Nations Security Council will hold an emergency meeting later on Monday at the request of Somalia to discuss Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland, a move Mogadishu says violates its sovereignty and international law.

The closed-door meeting, requested by Somalia’s federal government, will focus on the political, legal and security implications of Israel’s announcement, according to diplomatic sources.

Somalia, currently a non-permanent member of the 15-nation Security Council, has strongly rejected Israel’s move, saying it contravenes the UN Charter, international agreements and the principle of respect for the territorial integrity of states.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has previously described Israel’s decision as “a clear violation of international law” and an infringement on Somalia’s sovereignty, in remarks delivered to the country’s bicameral parliament.

All 15 Security Council members are expected to attend the meeting, where Somalia is likely to call for international pressure to reverse the decision and reaffirm its territorial unity.

Diplomats said discussions could expose divisions within the Council, though several members have already voiced support for Somalia’s position. Pakistan and Algeria have publicly aligned themselves with Mogadishu, condemning Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been recognised by the United Nations or any major international body. Somalia insists the region remains an integral part of its territory.

Israel announced last week that it had recognised Somaliland as an independent state, triggering widespread condemnation from Somalia, its parliament, and several regional and Arab countries.

Analysts say the issue risks escalating diplomatic tensions in the Horn of Africa, a region already facing security challenges linked to maritime routes, armed conflict and geopolitical competition.