Ankara: Following Israel's decision to recognize Somaliland, a region of Somalia, as an 'independent state,' Turkey, several Middle Eastern and African countries, and international organizations have expressed strong reactions.
According to Anadolu Agency, Turkey's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oncu Keceli highlighted that Israel's recognition of Somaliland represents an unlawful action by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, aimed at creating instability both regionally and globally. Keceli emphasized that such a move is an open interference in Somalia's internal affairs and asserted that decisions regarding the future of Somalia and its northern region must reflect the will of all Somali people. Turkey remains committed to peace and security in the Horn of Africa and stands firmly in support of Somalia's territorial integrity.
The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, criticized Israel's action as a violation of international law and an unacceptable intervention in Somalia's domestic matters. He underscored that Somalia and its citizens are united and cannot be divided by external forces. The Somali Foreign Ministry reaffirmed the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity, rejecting the recognition of Somaliland.
In a similar vein, Somalia's Southwest State President, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed, expressed his rejection of Netanyahu's declaration on the social media platform X. He labeled the decision a violation of international law and a threat to Somalia's unity.
Egypt's Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, engaged in discussions with counterparts from Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti, condemning Israel's decision. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry emphasized that any unilateral actions that compromise Somalia's sovereignty or stability are unacceptable.
The African Union (AU) also dismissed the recognition of Somaliland, reiterating its steadfast commitment to Somalia's unity and sovereignty. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission, rejected any actions aimed at recognizing Somaliland as independent, warning against potential disruptions to peace and stability across Africa.
The Gulf Cooperation Council's Secretary-General, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, and the Arab League's Secretary-General, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, both condemned Israel's decision, citing it as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability.
In the United States, President Donald Trump stated that he did not plan to immediately follow Israel's lead in recognizing Somaliland, indicating that the situation was under review.
Venezuela, through its Foreign Minister Yvan Gil Pinto, reaffirmed its support for Somalia's territorial integrity and unity, stressing the principle as crucial for peace in the Horn of Africa.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and Qatar also voiced strong opposition to Israel's decision. Both called for dialogue to support peace and stability in the region.
Yemen, Palestine, and Hamas expressed similar sentiments, rejecting Israel's recognition of Somaliland and emphasizing the importance of Somalia's sovereignty.
Iran condemned the move as a violation of Somalia's sovereignty, accusing Israel of destabilizing the region. Sudan and Pakistan also voiced their disapproval, affirming their support for Somalia's unity and territorial integrity. Saudi Arabia rejected Israel's action, underscoring its support for Somalia's legitimate institutions.