Ankara: The Arab League and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have voiced strong opposition to Israel's decision to recognize the breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent state, describing the move as a grave violation of international law and an infringement on Somalia's sovereignty.

According to Anadolu Agency, Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit criticized Israel's recognition, labeling it as a "clear violation of international law and a flagrant infringement of the principle of the unity and sovereignty of states." He emphasized that such unilateral recognitions amount to unacceptable interference in Somalia's internal affairs and set a dangerous precedent that could threaten regional and international stability.

The GCC joined in condemning the recognition, with its Secretary General Jasem Albudaiwi stating that Israel's move undermines the foundations of stability in the Horn of Africa. Albudaiwi warned that this could lead to increased tensions and conflicts, counteracting efforts to promote international peace and security in the region. He also reaffirmed the GCC's support for Somalia's security, stability, and territorial integrity.

Israel's recognition of Somaliland marks it as the first country to officially acknowledge the region's sovereignty since it declared independence from Somalia in 1991. Despite operating independently with its own administrative, political, and security systems, Somaliland has struggled to gain international recognition, while the Somali government continues to assert its claim over the territory and views any international engagement with Somaliland as a violation of its sovereignty.