Somaliland Suspends Air Djibouti Flights Following Diplomatic Tensions

The Somaliland administration has informed the Republic of Djibouti that it has suspended Air Djibouti flights operating within its territory, amid rising diplomatic tensions linked to Djibouti’s position on Israel’s recognition issue, according to local sources.

Sources said Somaliland authorities sent an official letter to Air Djibouti notifying the airline of the suspension, although no formal public announcement has yet been issued. Officials from Somaliland’s Civil Aviation Authority are expected to address the media in the coming days to provide further clarification on the decision.

The suspension is set to take effect on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. From that date onward, all regular Air Djibouti flights to and from Somaliland-administered areas will be halted indefinitely, according to information obtained by local media.

The move follows Djibouti’s decision to take a leading role among countries opposing Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, a stance that appears to have strained relations between Hargeisa and Djibouti. While Somaliland authorities have not publicly detailed the legal or diplomatic basis for the suspension, officials familiar with the matter describe it as a political response to Djibouti’s position.

Neither the government of Djibouti nor Air Djibouti has issued an official response regarding the reported notification or the flight suspension order. Observers say a response is expected in the coming days, as the decision could affect regional travel, trade, and passenger movement between the two sides.

The suspension is likely to have economic and logistical implications, particularly for travelers who rely on Air Djibouti for connections between Somaliland, Djibouti, and other regional destinations. Analysts say the development highlights how political disputes in the Horn of Africa are increasingly spilling over into commercial and aviation sectors.

Relations between Somaliland and Djibouti have historically included close economic and transit ties, with Djibouti serving as a key transport and trade hub for the wider region. The latest move signals a potential escalation in diplomatic friction at a time when the Horn of Africa is facing heightened geopolitical tensions.

Regional observers warn that continued escalation could undermine cooperation in aviation, trade, and security, urging dialogue to prevent further disruption to civilian and commercial activities.