A group of 12 Muslim-majority countries has strongly criticised Israel over its decision to appoint a diplomatic representative to the self-declared region of Somaliland.
In a statement shared on social media by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, foreign ministers from countries including Egypt, Turkey, Pakistan, and Kuwait described the move as a “flagrant violation” of Somalia’s territorial integrity.
The African Union has also rejected the decision, stating that any unilateral recognition of the territory is “null and void,” and warning that such actions could threaten stability in the region.
Reports have also emerged suggesting Israel may be considering establishing a military facility in Somaliland, which lies across the Gulf of Aden near Yemen. Such a base would potentially allow Israel to carry out strategic operations in the region, including against Houthi forces in Yemen, and possibly extend reach toward Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
In December, Israel became the first country to officially recognise Somaliland as an independent state, a move that drew swift international criticism. Earlier this week, it named Michael Lotem, its former ambassador to Kenya, as its first envoy to the territory.
Israel has also approved Mohamed Hagi, a presidential adviser involved in facilitating the recognition process, as Somaliland’s first ambassador to Israel.