Arab FMs Discuss Ways to Counter Somalia’s Division

Arab foreign ministers continued intensive discussions on ways to counter any attempts to divide Somalia during ongoing meetings held at the headquarters of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Riyadh, according to informed sources.

The meetings extended beyond their scheduled conclusion time as ministers worked to finalize details of a unified position, with no final draft resolution adopted so far. Deliberations focused primarily on developments related to the issue of so-called “Somaliland,” alongside a separate draft resolution addressing Israeli violations in the Palestinian territories.

Sources indicated that Arab and Islamic states are preparing a coordinated international move to oppose any unilateral steps related to “Somaliland” within international organizations and forums. The outcome of the meetings is expected to take the form of a formal draft resolution rather than a traditional closing statement.

The draft resolution includes explicit support for the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, as well as a call to pursue all necessary legal and diplomatic measures at the international level in response to Israel’s unilateral actions. This position aligns with statements delivered during the meeting, which stressed firm rejection of Israel’s stance and reaffirmed unwavering support for Somalia’s unity.

Participants expressed clear Arab and Islamic consensus on condemning recent Israeli moves, including any recognition of “Somaliland” and the continued violations in the Palestinian territories, describing them as flagrant breaches of international law that threaten regional security and stability in the Middle East.

During the opening session, the OIC Secretary-General strongly rejected the visit of the Israeli foreign minister to “Somaliland” earlier this month, emphasizing that such actions are unacceptable. Sources noted that the announcement of the final draft resolution is imminent as the meetings approach their conclusion.