Somalia Condemns Israeli Recognition of Somaliland as Naked Invasion

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Somalia’s President Calls for Unity Amid Israeli Recognition of Somaliland

In an emergency joint session of parliament, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed concerns about Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign state. The move was met with strong opposition from Somalia, which has not controlled Somaliland since its declaration of independence in 1991.

President Mohamud described the Israeli decision as “null and void” and warned that it could spark separatist movements elsewhere. He urged Somalis to set aside tribal and regional rivalries to confront what he called an “existential threat” to the country’s unity.

Lawmakers unanimously passed a resolution condemning Israel’s recognition, which is largely symbolic given Somalia’s lack of control over Somaliland since its declaration of independence. The measure warns that individuals or institutions violating Somalia’s sovereignty will face legal consequences under the country’s penal code and international law.

The resolution also directed the government to take up the matter with the United Nations, African Union, Arab League, and other regional bodies. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the recognition on Friday, describing it as being in line with the US-brokered Abraham Accords.

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Barre stated that Israel is seeking a foothold in the Horn of Africa and called for its recognition and acceptance of a Palestinian state instead. Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi defended his nation’s recognition, stating that it was not a threat or act of hostility to neighboring countries.

The Israeli decision has sparked an international backlash, with 21 Arab and African countries and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation condemning the move as a grave violation of international law. Regional leaders have reaffirmed support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, while Eritrea called on China to take action at the UN Security Council. The European Union issued a statement calling for respect for Somalia’s sovereignty but stopped short of condemning the move.

Netanyahu’s announcement came during a period of heightened tensions in the region, with Israel currently being investigated by the International Court of Justice over allegations of human rights abuses in Gaza.

Source: Al Jazeera