Photo Credit: Reuters
2025-12-28 09:00:00
In a Reuters report, Israel became the first country to formally recognise Somaliland as independent, a move Somalia condemned as unlawful and destabilising for the Horn of Africa.
Somalia’s government and regional partners warned the recognition could encourage secessionist bids and inflame an already volatile neighbourhood with competing security interests.
Diplomatic responses broadened quickly, with multiple states and blocs reiterating support for Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Reuters quoted Somalia’s government calling the move an “unlawful step” and a “deliberate attack,” while AP reported a joint statement rejecting Israel’s recognition “given the serious repercussions… on peace and security.”
Echotitbits take: The big watch is whether recognition triggers a domino effect or stays isolated. For Africa, the tension is between de facto realities and the AU’s long-standing anti-fragmentation stance.
Source: Reuters — December 26, 2025 (https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-recognises-somaliland-somalias-breakway-region-independent-state-2025-12-26/)
Reuters December 26, 2025
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-recognises-somaliland-somalias-breakway-region-independent-state-2025-12-26/
