People in Somaliland took to the streets in celebration today after Israel became the first country to formally recognise their region as an independent nation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the decision on December 26, 2025, calling it a step toward stronger ties in the region.
Netanyahu said he signed a joint declaration with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi. The agreement sets up full diplomatic relations. Israel plans to open an embassy there soon, and Somaliland will do the same in Israel.
In his statement, Netanyahu praised the Somaliland leader for his work on stability and peace. He invited President Abdullahi to visit Israel officially. Abdullahi accepted quickly and said he looked forward to coming soon.
The Somaliland president called it a historic moment and said his country is ready to join the Abraham Accords. Those accords started in 2020 under former U.S. President Donald Trump to normalise relations between Israel and several Arab countries.
Netanyahu linked the new deal to that same spirit. He said Israel wants to work right away with Somaliland on agriculture, health care, technology, and the economy. He also thanked the Mossad intelligence agency for helping make this happen.
Somaliland broke away from Somalia in 1991 after years of conflict. It has run its own government since then, with its own currency, elections, and police.
The area sits on the Gulf of Aden, a key spot for shipping. But no United Nations member had recognised it until now. Many countries have offices there, like the UK and Ethiopia, but stopped short of full recognition.
Celebrations broke out in the capital, Hargeisa. People waved flags, and some projected the Israeli flag on buildings. Locals see this as a big win after waiting more than 30 years.
Not everyone welcomed the news. Somalia’s government called it an attack on their country’s unity. They say Somaliland is still part of Somalia and reject any separate recognition.
The African Union agreed, saying Somaliland remains part of Somalia. Countries like Egypt, Turkey, and Djibouti also spoke out against it. They worry it sets a bad example for other breakaway regions.
This move gives Israel a new partner in the Horn of Africa. The area is close to Yemen, where Houthis have caused trouble for shipping. Some reports say security played a role in the decision.
For Somaliland, the recognition opens doors to more trade and aid. It could encourage other countries to follow Israel’s lead. President Abdullahi said it helps build peace across Africa and the Middle East.
The U.S. has not said yet if it will recognise Somaliland. President Trump was asked about it, but he said he needs to study the issue more.
This development changes things in the region. Somaliland feels validated after decades of running things on its own. Israel gains a friend in a strategic spot. But tensions with Somalia and neighbours are likely to rise. Leaders on both sides will watch what happens next.
