Israel Recognises Somaliland as Independent State

Israel on December 26 formally recognised the self-proclaimed Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, becoming the first country to do so.

Key Announcement
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu congratulated Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, praised his leadership and invited him to visit Israel. The move marks a significant diplomatic milestone for Somaliland, which has sought international recognition for over three decades.

About Somaliland

• Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the Somali state after the overthrow of military ruler Siad Barre.
• Despite functioning with its own government, currency, and security apparatus, it has not been recognised by any UN member state until now.
• It lies along the Gulf of Aden in the Horn of Africa and is largely semi-desert in terrain.

Colonial and Historical Background

• The region was known as British Somaliland, a protectorate from 1884, later becoming a British colony in 1920.
• It gained independence on June 26, 1960, briefly existing as the State of Somaliland for five days.
• On July 1, 1960, it voluntarily merged with Italian Somaliland to form the Somali Republic.
• Political instability and a military coup later led to the formation of the Somali Democratic Republic, which collapsed in 1991.

Significance of Recognition

• Israel’s decision represents a major diplomatic breakthrough for Somaliland’s long-standing quest for sovereignty.
• The move could have wider geopolitical implications in the Horn of Africa, particularly given the region’s strategic importance near major global shipping routes.