MOGADISHU, Somalia — The Federal Republic of Somalia has entered a decisive phase of diplomatic and internal consolidation after Israel recognized the Somaliland administration. This move, directed by the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has triggered a wave of wide condemnations from the international community and even within Israel’s own media landscape, reinforcing Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Leading the diplomatic defense, Turkey and Egypt have issued firm statements reaffirming their unwavering support for a unified Somalia, explicitly criticizing the move as a violation of international law. Concurrently, major multilateral bodies—including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Arab League, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)—have issued formal denunciations. These organizations have voiced their collective support for the Federal Government’s exclusive authority, presenting a formidable wall of regional opposition to the move from Jerusalem.
Notably, the decision has also faced scrutiny from within Israel. Prominent Israeli media outlets, including Haaretz and Channel 12, have featured critical perspectives on the Netanyahu government’s policy. Reporters and analysts in these outlets have questioned the strategic wisdom of the move, with some sources characterizing it as a provocative step that risks further isolating Israel in the region and undermining long-standing international norms regarding sovereign borders.
In an unprecedented move toward national reconciliation, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud initiated high-stakes telephone consultations last night with former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and the leadership of the Somalia Salvation Forum, headed by former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed. The President has formally invited these veteran leaders to Villa Somalia to forge a unified national strategy.
