AU slams Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, issues warning to Africa

The African Union (AU) has condemned Israel’s decision to formally recognise Somaliland, reiterating that the breakaway region remains an integral part of Somalia.

Israel on Friday became the first country to officially recognise Somaliland, an autonomous region in north-western Somalia that declared independence in 1991 following the collapse of the Somali state. The move has sparked strong criticism from the AU and neighbouring countries.

In a statement, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Youssouf said the bloc “unequivocally rejects any attempt to recognise Somaliland as an independent state” and reaffirmed its long-standing position on the intangibility of borders inherited at independence.

“Any attempt to undermine the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Somalia runs counter to the fundamental principles of the African Union and risks setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent,” Youssouf said.

Somalia’s federal government also condemned Israel’s action, calling it “an unlawful step” and insisting that Somaliland is “an integral, inseparable, and inalienable part” of the country. Egypt and other regional actors have similarly voiced opposition, warning that unilateral measures could erode stability in the Horn of Africa.

Despite this, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the recognition as part of Israel’s broader diplomatic outreach under the Abraham Accords. He said the agreement would boost cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology, and the economy, and invited President Abdirahman Abdullahi to Israel for discussions.

Somaliland’s president hailed the recognition as a “historic moment” and the start of a “strategic partnership.” Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump reportedly commented that Washington had no plans to recognise Somaliland, questioning: “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?”

The AU warned that Israel’s move could set a dangerous precedent, particularly in a continent where multiple countries face secessionist pressures, and called for the unity and territorial integrity of Somalia to be respected.