International Coalition Denounces Unauthorized Visit to Somalia’s Somaliland Region
Foreign ministers from 23 countries and international organizations have issued a joint statement strongly condemning the unauthorized visit by an Israeli official to the “Somaliland” region of the Federal Republic of Somalia on 6 January 2026. The coalition emphasized that the visit constitutes a blatant violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and undermines established international norms.
The statement was released by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Arab Republic of Egypt, the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, the Union of the Comoros, the Republic of Djibouti, the Republic of The Gambia, the Republic of Indonesia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the State of Kuwait, the State of Libya, the Republic of Maldives, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Sultanate of Oman, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the State of Palestine, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Federal Republic of Somalia, the Republic of the Sudan, the Republic of Türkiye, the Republic of Yemen, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Reaffirming Previous Rejection of Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland
The ministers recalled their earlier statement issued on 27 December 2025, in which they categorically rejected Israel’s recognition of the so-called “Somaliland” region. The coalition reaffirmed its unified stance in support of Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity, emphasizing that unilateral actions that undermine international law and regional stability are unacceptable.
Condemnation of the Illegal Visit and Violation of International Law
The ministers expressed their strong condemnation of the Israeli official’s visit, describing it as illegal, unauthorized, and in direct violation of Somalia’s sovereignty. They highlighted that such actions violate internationally recognized borders and undermine the principles of the United Nations Charter, which safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states.
Support for Somalia’s Sovereignty, Unity, and Territorial Integrity
The coalition reaffirmed its unwavering support for Somalia, underlining that the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the country must be fully respected. The ministers stressed that encouraging secessionist agendas is unacceptable and poses a serious risk of escalating tensions in an already fragile region, threatening peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
Importance of International Law and Diplomatic Norms
The statement emphasized that respect for international law, non-interference in internal affairs of sovereign states, and adherence to diplomatic norms are essential for regional and global stability. The ministers warned that violations of these principles undermine not only Somalia but also the broader security of neighboring countries.
Commendation of Somalia’s Commitment to Peaceful Diplomacy
The coalition commended the Federal Republic of Somalia for its steadfast commitment to peaceful international engagement, constructive diplomacy, and adherence to international law. Somalia has continued to pursue diplomatic and legal measures to resolve disputes, demonstrating responsibility and restraint despite challenges.
Continued Support for Somalia’s Legal and Diplomatic Measures
The ministers expressed their firm commitment to support Somalia in all diplomatic, legal, and international efforts aimed at safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability, fully aligned with international law.
Call for Israel to Respect Somalia’s Sovereignty
The statement concluded by stressing that Israel must fully respect Somalia’s sovereignty, national unity, and territorial integrity, honor its obligations under international law, and immediately revoke the recognition of the so-called “Somaliland” region, which is illegal and null under international law.
A Unified International Stance on Sovereignty and Stability
The joint declaration reflects a unified and resolute position by the international community to uphold the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful coexistence, signaling that any unilateral actions undermining these principles will face strong international opposition.
African security council urges Israel to withdraw recognition of Somaliland
