IGAD supports Somalia’s sovereignty after Somaliland opens embassy in Jerusalem

Thursday June 18, 2026

Djibouti (HOL) — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development called Thursday for restraint and respect for Somalia’s sovereignty after Somaliland opened an embassy in Jerusalem.

In a statement, the Horn of Africa regional bloc reaffirmed its commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity and political independence, citing the IGAD Treaty, the African Union Constitutive Act and the U.N. Charter.

“IGAD has taken note of reports concerning the opening of a Somaliland embassy in Jerusalem and reiterates its longstanding position that Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity must be fully respected,” the bloc said.

IGAD said it was concerned by any action or initiative that undermines the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

The bloc warned that such actions could heighten tensions and undermine regional peace, stability and cooperation.

The statement follows Israel’s reported recognition of Somaliland as an independent sovereign state in December 2025 and the subsequent opening of a Somaliland mission in Jerusalem.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has since operated as a de facto self-governing administration with its own political, security and electoral institutions.

Somalia rejects Somaliland’s claim to sovereignty, considers the region part of the Federal Republic of Somalia and views any direct foreign engagement with Hargeisa outside Mogadishu’s authority as a violation of its sovereignty and unity.

The Jerusalem embassy opening has drawn condemnation from Somalia and several regional and international organizations, including the Arab League, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab Parliament.