MOGADISHU — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has reaffirmed that Somalia maintains no diplomatic relations with Israel, while reiterating support for Palestinian statehood and emphasizing his government’s commitment to resolving internal political disputes through dialogue rather than force.
Speaking in an interview broadcast by Dawan TV, Mohamud addressed Somalia’s position on Israel, the Palestinian issue, and the federal government’s approach to Somaliland, the self-declared republic that has sought international recognition since breaking away from Somalia in 1991.
The president said his government had rejected the use of military force in dealing with the Somaliland issue, opting instead for peaceful engagement and negotiations.
“There were two options before us,” Mohamud said. “One was to confront the issue by force and seek a military solution. The other was to engage peacefully. Our government has completely ruled out the first option and chosen dialogue.”
Mohamud said preserving Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity remains a key priority for his administration, adding that political engagement offers the best path toward a lasting solution.
The president also addressed Somalia’s stance toward Israel, noting that the two countries have never established diplomatic relations since Somalia gained independence in 1960.
“We do not ignore the Government of Israel, but we do not have relations with them,” he said.
Mohamud acknowledged Israel’s membership in the United Nations and other international organizations but reiterated Somalia’s longstanding support for the Palestinian cause and a two-state solution.
“Israel is a member of the United Nations and several international organizations,” the president said. “However, it is an oppressive state, and we do not support its policies. Let Israel remain where it is, but Palestinians should also have their own independent state.”
Somalia has historically supported Palestinian self-determination and has consistently backed Palestinian statehood in international forums, while maintaining no formal diplomatic ties with Israel.
The remarks come amid continuing regional diplomatic tensions and debates over Somalia’s territorial integrity, particularly following efforts by Somaliland to expand its international engagement and seek greater recognition abroad.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the central government. While it operates with its own government, currency, and security institutions, it has not received formal recognition from any member state of the United Nations.
