Somaliland Says Israel Has Recognised Its Independence Following Friday Talks

Hargeisa—Friday, December 26, 2025 (SNN News)

Somaliland authorities say Israel has formally recognized Somaliland’s independence following high-level virtual talks held on Friday between Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

According to an official statement from Somaliland, the recognition was conveyed during a video conference in which the two leaders discussed political, diplomatic, and strategic cooperation. Somaliland said both sides acknowledged its long-standing claim to sovereignty and agreed to open a new chapter in bilateral relations.

The Somaliland presidency described the development as a historic diplomatic milestone, saying it could pave the way for expanded cooperation in areas including security, economic development, technology, and international diplomacy.

“This recognition represents a significant step toward Somaliland’s full engagement with the international community and strengthens its role in promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa,” the statement said.

Somaliland has functioned as a self-governing state since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, maintaining its own institutions, security forces, and electoral processes. However, it remains unrecognized by the United Nations and most UN member states.

At the time of publication, Israeli authorities had not issued an independent public confirmation of the recognition. Regional analysts say further clarification from Israel and international partners is likely in the coming days.

If formally confirmed, the move would mark a major diplomatic shift and could influence broader debates on recognition, sovereignty, and geopolitical alignment in the Horn of Africa.