The United Nations Security Council has condemned Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, warning that the move could undermine Somalia’s territorial integrity and destabilise the Horn of Africa.
During an emergency session at UN headquarters in New York, 14 of the 15 Council members criticised Israel’s unilateral action, saying it risks setting a precedent that challenges established international frameworks for statehood and borders. Somalia’s Permanent Representative, Abukar Dahir Osman, described the recognition as a violation of his country’s sovereignty and warned it could escalate instability along key Red Sea trade routes.
The United States was the only Council member that did not directly criticise Israel, clarifying that Washington’s policy on Somaliland remains unchanged. Israel defended its decision, saying recognition is intended to foster engagement, not hinder dialogue with Mogadishu.
Other countries, including China, the United Kingdom, Pakistan, South Africa, and Arab League representatives, voiced strong opposition, highlighting concerns about population displacement, potential use of northern Somali ports for military purposes, and broader regional security implications.
