Video: Israel Officially Recognizes Somaliland as an Independent state

Israel has become the first country to officially recognize the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Friday via GPO video. Netanyahu, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, and Somaliland President Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah issued a joint declaration, invoking the Abraham Accords initiated by former U.S. President Trump. Netanyahu congratulated Abdallah on his "leadership and commitment to promoting stability and peace," extending an official invitation to visit Israel. Abdallah thanked Netanyahu for Israel's fight against terrorism and regional peace efforts. Netanyahu credited Mossad Director David Barnea and his team. Israel plans immediate expansion of ties in agriculture, health, technology, and economy. This development challenges Somalia's claims over Somaliland and could bolster Red Sea security amid Houthi threats. Somalia's government has yet to respond.