Israel PM Netanyahu says Somaliland recognition was driven by stability and regional cooperation goals

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland was driven by what he described as the region’s stability, moderation, and interest in establishing relations with Israel.

Speaking in an interview with the US-based outlet Newsmax, Netanyahu described Somaliland as a “stable, Muslim and moderate” entity that seeks diplomatic engagement with Israel. He claimed that these factors made recognition “inevitable,” adding that Israel was simply the first country to take that step.

“Somaliland is a Muslim country with around six million moderate Muslims,” Netanyahu said. “They want to join the Abraham Accords, and I see that as something positive. They have held elections, while the rest of Somalia has been plagued by Al-Shabaab and has not had direct elections for decades.”

Netanyahu further argued that Somaliland’s political and security situation sets it apart from the rest of Somalia, which he said continues to face serious security challenges due to militant activity. He maintained that Israel’s move to recognize Somaliland was justified, stating, “Every country will eventually have to recognize it, but we were the first.”

Israel’s recognition of Somaliland has, however, sparked strong international backlash. During a recent session of the United Nations Security Council, most member states condemned the move, describing it as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The United States was the only country at the meeting that did not join the condemnation, stating that Israel has the right to make its own foreign policy decisions.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also weighed in on the controversy, posting on X (formerly Twitter) that the Security Council debate revealed what he called “hypocrisy” within the international community. He argued that global actors criticize Israel’s recognition of Somaliland while remaining silent on recognition of Palestine, which he described as a state that does not exist, in contrast to what he claimed is Somaliland’s reality.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the central government but has not received broad international recognition. The Federal Government of Somalia has repeatedly stated that Somaliland remains an integral part of the country and has rejected Israel’s recognition as a violation of international law.

The issue continues to generate diplomatic tension, with Somalia and several regional and international partners calling for respect for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and internationally recognized borders.