The talks, confirmed in a statement from President Mohamud’s office on December 27, 2025, also involved Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu, and Djibouti’s Ismael Oguelleh.
The discussions centered on bilateral, regional, and global issues of mutual interest, including economic collaboration, security, and development initiatives.
In a joint statement, the Somali office noted that the leaders reaffirmed their support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the recognition during a phone call with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi, pledging support in agriculture, economic development, and social programs.
“I am signing the official recognition of Somaliland as an independent state and its right to self-determination. This presents a significant opportunity to expand our partnership. We intend to work with you in the economic, agricultural, and social development sectors,” Netanyahu said.
The move immediately sparked widespread concern from Mogadishu, regional bodies, and the international community. Somalia condemned the recognition, calling it a violation of its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
The Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement emphasizing its “absolute and non-negotiable commitment” to national unity, territorial integrity, and adherence to international law, citing the United Nations Charter, the African Union’s Constitutive Act, and the charters of the League of Arab States and Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
Regional and international actors expressed similar concerns. The African Union warned that any attempt to interfere with Somalia’s sovereignty could have serious security implications, risking instability across the continent.
The AU pledged full support to Somali authorities to strengthen institutions and promote peace and inclusive governance.
Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania joined several African and Middle Eastern nations in reaffirming support for Somalia.
Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, Djibouti, Jordan, and Iraq also rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, describing the move as a blatant violation of international law.
The situation is further complicated by Somaliland’s longstanding presence in Nairobi, which Somalia views as undermining its sovereignty.
The situation is further complicated by Somaliland’s longstanding presence in Nairobi, which Somalia views as undermining its sovereignty.
Historically, Kenya has maintained strong diplomatic relations with Israel, fostering economic, technological, and security cooperation.
However, Kenya’s recent stance in support of Somalia could create a rare diplomatic friction point with Israel.
The Somaliland dispute comes at a sensitive time, as Israel’s foreign policy increasingly focuses on Africa, particularly in trade, agriculture, and technology partnerships.
The recognition of Somaliland sets a precedent that could influence other territorial disputes in the region, making diplomatic engagement crucial.
The Somaliland dispute comes at a sensitive time, as Israel’s foreign policy increasingly focuses on Africa, particularly in trade, agriculture, and technology partnerships.
The recognition of Somaliland sets a precedent that could influence other territorial disputes in the region, making diplomatic engagement crucial.
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