Somali President Mohamud Rejects Israeli Interference in Somaliland Region

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has stated that his country will take action to prevent an Israeli military presence in Somaliland, a breakaway region from Somalia. In an interview with Al Jazeera, Mohamud expressed opposition to Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, which was announced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December.

Mohamud warned that the proposed Israeli base could be used as a launching point for attacks on neighboring countries. He also stated that Somalia will “confront” any attempt to establish an Israeli military presence in Somaliland.

The recognition of Somaliland by Israel has been met with criticism from many African and Arab leaders, who view it as a threat to Somalia’s territorial integrity and unity. The move has also sparked tensions between Somalia and Somaliland, which has developed ties with the United Arab Emirates and Taiwan in recent years.

Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland was seen as a significant shift in the region’s fortunes, following decades of diplomatic isolation for the breakaway region. However, Mohamud described the move as “reckless, fundamentally wrong and illegal under international law”.

The interview with Al Jazeera took place amid reports that Israeli officials had discussed using Somaliland as a potential location for an Israeli military base. A Somaliland official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation confirmed in January that such a base was being considered.

Mohamud also expressed concern about the impact of Israel’s actions on global governance, stating that the move “undermines stability, security and trade” and reflects the weakening of international order.

Source: Al Jazeera