Somalia demanded that Israel reverse its recognition of Somaliland, a breakaway region, with the Somali government condemning the move as an act of aggression. Ali Omar, Somalia's state minister for foreign affairs, stated in an interview with Al Jazeera on Saturday that the government would use all available diplomatic avenues to challenge what he described as Israeli interference in Somalia's internal affairs.
The demand followed Israel's formal recognition of Somaliland, making it the first country to do so. The recognition by Israel triggered immediate condemnation across African and Arab nations.
According to Omar, the recognition constituted an act of state aggression that Somalia would not tolerate. He did not elaborate on the specific diplomatic measures Somalia planned to undertake.
Somaliland declared its independence from Somalia in 1991, but it has not been widely recognized internationally. Despite lacking international recognition, Somaliland has maintained a relatively stable government and its own currency, passport, and flag.
Israel's recognition of Somaliland came after a video call between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Somaliland's President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi. Details of any agreements or conditions attached to the recognition have not been publicly disclosed by either government.
The move by Israel raises questions about its broader strategy in Africa, particularly in the Horn of Africa region. Analysts suggest Israel may be seeking to strengthen its diplomatic and security ties in the region, potentially as a counterweight to Iranian influence.
The Arab League has also condemned Israel's recognition of Somaliland, reiterating its support for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The African Union has yet to issue a formal statement on the matter.
The situation remains fluid, and the long-term implications of Israel's recognition of Somaliland are still unclear. Somalia's government has indicated it will continue to pursue diplomatic efforts to reverse the decision, while Israel has not yet commented publicly on Somalia's demands.
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