sraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israel has officially recognized the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, marking a significant diplomatic development in the Horn of Africa.
In a statement released on Thursday, Netanyahu said the recognition was formalized through a “joint and mutual declaration” signed together with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi. He described the declaration as being “in the spirit of the Abraham Accords,” which were signed under the initiative of US President Donald Trump.
Netanyahu said he congratulated President Abdirahman on what he described as a “historic declaration,” praising his leadership and commitment to promoting stability and peace. The Israeli prime minister also extended an invitation to the Somaliland president to pay an official visit to Israel.
According to Netanyahu, President Abdirahman welcomed the move and expressed appreciation for Israel’s role in counterterrorism efforts and advancing regional peace.
The Israeli prime minister further acknowledged the role of Foreign Minister Sa’ar, Mossad Director David Barnea, and Israel’s intelligence services in facilitating the recognition.
Netanyahu said Israel plans to “immediately expand” relations with Somaliland through broad cooperation in agriculture, health, technology, and the economy.