HARGEISA — Demonstrations broke out in several parts of Somaliland following reports of alleged political and security agreements between the administration of President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Cirro and Israel.
Eyewitnesses said groups of protesters gathered in major towns, including Hargeisa, chanting slogans rejecting foreign involvement in local politics and demanding transparency over recent diplomatic engagements.
The unrest comes amid growing debate over Somaliland’s expanding relations with Israel, which include reported cooperation in areas such as security, investment, technology, and diplomatic engagement. The developments follow Israel’s reported recognition of Somaliland in late 2025 and subsequent high-level contacts between the two sides.
Opposition politicians and civil society groups have accused the government of lacking transparency and warned that closer alignment with Israel could increase regional tensions in the Horn of Africa.
Somaliland authorities have denied allegations of secret deals, stating that all agreements with foreign partners are aimed at economic development and international cooperation. Officials urged calm and called on citizens to avoid actions that could disrupt public order.
Meanwhile, Somalia’s federal government has strongly opposed Somaliland’s independent diplomatic activities, maintaining that all foreign relations should be conducted under Somalia’s sovereignty.
Security forces were deployed in some areas to monitor the situation, though no major incidents of violence were immediately reported.
The situation remains fluid as political debate intensifies over Somaliland’s foreign policy direction and its relations with Israel.
