Turkish President Denounces Israeli Move
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday, December 31, 2025, strongly condemned Israel's formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, labeling the decision as 'illegitimate and unacceptable'. Speaking at a joint press conference in Istanbul alongside Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Erdogan emphasized Turkey's unwavering support for Somalia's territorial integrity and sovereignty. He warned that Israel's action risked undermining recent security gains in Somalia and could destabilize the entire Horn of Africa region.
President Erdogan stated, 'Preserving the unity and integrity of Somalia in all circumstances holds special importance in our view. Israel's decision to recognise Somaliland is illegitimate and unacceptable.' He further accused the Israeli government of pursuing destabilizing policies beyond the Middle East.
Somali President Calls Recognition 'Illegal Aggression'
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud echoed Erdogan's sentiments, condemning Israel's recognition as an 'illegal aggression' and a 'violation of international law, the United Nations Charter, the African Union's principles, and established diplomatic norms'. Mohamud described the move as a 'threat to the security and stability of the world and the region'. He expressed gratitude for Turkey's support during 'this challenging period', affirming, 'As we face challenges to our territorial integrity and sovereignty, the support from Turkey and its people is invaluable'.
Israel's Recognition and International Reaction
Israel formally recognized Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state on December 26, 2025, following a 'formal appeal' from Somaliland's president to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This decision was made 'in the spirit of the Abraham Accords' and cited 'shared values, strategic interests, and the spirit of mutual respect'. Israel is currently the only United Nations member state to recognize Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has lacked international recognition until now.
The move has drawn widespread criticism from various international bodies and nations, including the African Union, Egypt, the European Union, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting where Somalia's Ambassador to the UN, Abubakr Taher Osman, denounced Israel's action as a 'flagrant assault' on Somalia's unity and territorial integrity. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar defended the decision, stating, 'No one will determine for Israel whom it may conduct diplomatic relations with.'
Turkey's Strategic Partnership with Somalia
Turkey maintains a strong alliance with Somalia, providing significant military and economic assistance. This includes helping to rebuild the Somali army and infrastructure, and operating a large military base in Mogadishu. The two nations are also expanding cooperation in the energy sector, with Turkey announcing plans to begin offshore drilling operations off the Somali coast in 2026. This strategic partnership underscores Turkey's commitment to Somalia's stability and sovereignty in the region.
5 Comments
Bermudez
Turkey's hypocrisy is showing. They meddle everywhere, then complain.
Coccinella
Somaliland has a right to self-determination. Why deny them recognition?
Muchacho
Israel's move is a clear violation of international law. Erdogan is absolutely right!
ZmeeLove
Israel certainly has the right to conduct its own foreign policy, but recognizing Somaliland without broader international consensus seems provocative. It risks escalating tensions in an already fragile region unnecessarily.
Habibi
Erdogan just wants to stir up trouble in the region, as usual.