MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia has strongly condemned a recent visit by the leader of Somaliland to Palestinian territories under Israeli control, describing the trip as a violation of Somalia’s constitution and international law.
In a statement issued following a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Xamse Cabdi Barre, the Council of Ministers said the visit undermines Somalia’s sovereignty and contradicts established diplomatic norms governing foreign relations.
The cabinet stressed that foreign policy is the exclusive responsibility of the federal government of Somalia, and warned that any unilateral engagement with international actors by sub-national authorities risks damaging the country’s unified diplomatic position.
The statement “strongly condemned” the visit, arguing it was inconsistent with Somalia’s constitution, international law, and principles of respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Officials also reaffirmed Somalia’s long-standing support for the Palestinian cause, reiterating opposition to what it described as the occupation of Palestinian territories under Israeli control in Palestine.
The government further characterized the trip as “politically motivated” and said it sends “the wrong message” at a time when Somalia seeks to maintain a coherent foreign policy position on sensitive international issues.
The controversy comes amid continued political tension between Mogadishu and Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991 but is not internationally recognized.
Diplomatic sources said the cabinet meeting included “intense discussions” on the implications of the visit, though officials did not disclose whether any formal diplomatic measures would follow.
Somalia has consistently maintained that all international engagements must be coordinated through the federal government, a position that frequently brings it into dispute with Somaliland authorities over external relations.
