By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Hundreds of people gathered in central Mogadishu on Wednesday to protest what organizers described as Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, a move demonstrators said threatens Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity.
The protest took place at the Daljirka Dahsoon Monument, a prominent landmark in the Somali capital, and was jointly organized by religious leaders and officials from Somalia’s federal government. Participants included youth, elders and women, many of whom waved Somali flags and carried placards rejecting any recognition of Somaliland’s self-declared independence.
Chants and slogans condemned what demonstrators called foreign interference in Somalia’s internal affairs, while speakers accused Israel of violating international norms and undermining Somalia’s sovereignty.
Somalia’s federal government has previously issued strong objections following reports that Israel had taken steps toward recognizing Somaliland, a breakaway region that declared independence in 1991 but has not been internationally recognized. The government reiterated its position that Somalia remains a single, unified state.
The issue has sparked diplomatic tensions and widespread reaction across the region. Somali officials say several allied countries and international partners have expressed opposition to any move that would legitimize Somaliland’s secession, arguing that such a step would contravene international law and established principles respecting national borders.
Religious leaders and government officials who addressed the crowd called on the international community to stand with Somalia and respect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. They urged foreign governments to refrain from actions that could further destabilize the Horn of Africa.
Somaliland, located in northern Somalia, has operated with its own government, security forces and institutions for more than three decades, but it remains unrecognized by the United Nations and the African Union.
Authorities in Mogadishu said the protest was peaceful, with security forces deployed around the area to maintain order. No arrests or incidents were reported.
