Somalia President Accuses Israel of Exploiting Somaliland Dispute After Recognition Move

Speaking on Saturday in an interview with Mogadishu-based broadcaster Dawan TV, President Mohamud described the recognition as “one of the darkest days” in Somalia’s recent history.

“Tel Aviv is taking advantage of the long-standing dispute between Mogadishu and Hargeisa,” he said.

Israel announced in late December 2025 that it recognised Somaliland as an independent sovereign state, becoming one of the first countries to formally acknowledge the territory’s claim to statehood.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of Somalia’s central government. Although it has since maintained its own administration, security institutions and political system, it has not received broad international recognition and continues to be regarded by Somalia and most countries as part of Somali territory.

President Mohamud said Somalia had considered different approaches to addressing Somaliland’s status but had ultimately chosen dialogue rather than force.

“We considered two possible paths and chose persuasion and dialogue over military action,” he said, adding that although the process had taken more than three decades, it remained the most appropriate course under the circumstances.

The Somali government has consistently rejected Somaliland’s independence claims and opposes any direct international engagement with the region without the involvement of Mogadishu, arguing that such actions undermine Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

President Mohamud also reiterated Somalia’s position on Israel, noting that the country has never established diplomatic relations with Tel Aviv and describing Israel as an aggressor against the Palestinian people.

Israel’s recognition of Somaliland is expected to add a new dimension to tensions in the Horn of Africa, where questions of sovereignty, regional influence and diplomatic recognition remain highly sensitive.