🔔 On Friday, December 26, 2025, Israel officially became the first country to recognize Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state. If you’re wondering “where’s Somaliland?”, here’s the 411: it’s a self-declared republic in Somalia’s north that’s been running solo since 1991. 🇸🇴🔒
Since its 1991 declaration during Somalia’s civil war era, Somaliland has forged its own currency, passports and army. But despite the de facto statehood, it’s been locked out of global loans, big investments and diplomatic hugs—until now.
Israel framed the move as part of that Abraham Accords energy ⚡🤝, aiming to build trade and security ties in the Red Sea corridor—vital for shipping lanes, energy routes and regional stability.
Somalia’s response? Absolute fury. 🇸🇴🔥 Mogadishu slammed the recognition as a “deliberate attack” on its sovereignty, warning it could unravel peace efforts. The African Union (AU) also protested, calling the decision a “dangerous precedent” for continental stability.
Even Türkiye and Egypt joined the chorus, condemning what they termed “overt interference” in Somalia’s domestic affairs and reaffirming support for its unity and territorial integrity. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority condemned Israel on social media, accusing it of complicity in unfair displacement talk. 😠📲
Why would Israel play this strategic card? Analysts point to regional security. With the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen and occasional maritime skirmishes since October 2023, Israel needs allies along key sea routes. It’s like securing a supply chain partner before a big project launch. 🚢🔒
Back in Hargeisa, Somaliland’s capital, the streets exploded in celebration as people waved their flag and danced. 🎉 Yet, global recognition is more than a party—it’s the key to loans and investment. Without more nations on board, Somaliland’s economic struggles likely stick around.
This bold move reminds us that geopolitics is a high-stakes game where new alliances can redraw maps. For young changemakers in South and Southeast Asia, it’s a live lesson in how strategic partnerships ripple across the globe. Stay tuned as this story evolves! 🌏✨
Reference(s):
Somalia, African nations denounce Israeli recognition of Somaliland
cgtn.com
