By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — The Arab League on Tuesday strongly condemned Israel’s foreign minister’s visit to Hargeisa, calling it an illegitimate attempt to legitimize Somaliland and a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty.
Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit described the Jan. 6 visit as part of a “failed effort” to advance Israel’s move toward recognizing Somaliland, which falls outside the internationally recognized framework of Somalia. He emphasized that any engagement with separatist entities undermines Somalia’s unity and regional security.
Arab League spokesperson Gamal Rashidi said the visit was widely rejected internationally and recalled that the Arab League Council declared recognition of Somaliland “null, void, and unacceptable” in December 2025. Rashidi also warned of risks including Palestinian displacement and the possible establishment of foreign military bases in Somali ports.
The Arab League pledged continued support to Somalia’s federal institutions to prevent actions that could destabilize the country or threaten key Arab maritime routes.
Somaliland declared independence in 1991 but remains unrecognized internationally. Israel’s recognition and the high-level visit have heightened tensions in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.
