Erdogan criticizes Israels recognition of Somaliland as unacceptable move

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held a joint press conference in Ankara on Tuesday. During the event, Erdogan expressed his concerns over Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state.

Erdogan stated that the recognition is “illegitimate and unacceptable” and warned that it could destabilize the Horn of Africa. He also emphasized the importance of preserving Somalia’s unity and integrity in all circumstances.

Mohamud, who was accompanied by Erdogan, accused Israel of violating international law and engaging in “illegal aggression”. He claimed that the recognition breaches the United Nations charter and African Union agreements.

Israel became the first country to formally recognize Somaliland on Friday, describing the move as being in line with the Abraham Accords. The recognition is seen as a significant development in the region, given Somaliland’s unilateral declaration of independence from Somalia in 1991.

Mohamud warned that the move could have international consequences and potentially destabilize the Horn of Africa, particularly in Somalia. He also expressed concerns about Israel’s intentions, stating that it may attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians in Somalia or control strategically important waterways.

Turkish officials have previously played a mediating role between Somalia and Somaliland, supporting efforts to resolve the dispute peacefully. Abdinor Dahir, an independent researcher, noted that Turkey has invested heavily in Somalia’s security forces and political process, while also mediating talks between the two parties.

Dahir warned that Israel’s recognition could pose a direct challenge to Somalia’s sovereignty and threaten Turkey’s economic interests in the country. He also cautioned that the move risks destabilizing the wider African region and potentially transferring Middle East conflicts into the Horn of Africa.

Source: Al Jazeera