EU Supports Somalia After Israel Recognizes Somaliland

The European Union on Saturday reaffirmed its commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity following Israel’s unprecedented recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.

Israel’s announcement, made a day earlier, has sparked widespread international condemnation, with African and Middle Eastern nations asserting that Somalia’s borders cannot be altered unilaterally.

EU foreign affairs spokesperson Anouar El Anouni stated that the bloc underscores the importance of respecting Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, describing this as essential for peace and stability across the Horn of Africa.

The EU also encouraged constructive dialogue between Somaliland and Somalia’s federal government to address long-standing disputes.

Somalia’s government reacted angrily, condemning Israel’s move as a direct assault on its sovereignty. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud denounced the recognition as a violation of international norms and insisted that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia. Officials in Mogadishu said they would pursue diplomatic and legal measures to counter the “unlawful” recognition.

Several regional and international actors joined the criticism. Egypt, Turkey, Djibouti, and the Gulf Cooperation Council warned that the recognition could destabilize the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea corridor. The African Union and IGAD reiterated that Somalia’s borders are internationally recognized and must not be altered unilaterally.

Over 20 nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation issued a joint statement highlighting the potential “serious repercussions” for regional and global security. The United States confirmed its continued recognition of Somalia’s territorial integrity, including Somaliland.

Israel framed its move as part of expanding partnerships under the Abraham Accords, which have facilitated diplomatic and economic ties with Arab and Muslim-majority countries since 2020.