By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected to travel to Kenya on a one-day visit on Tuesday, according to emerging reports, amid growing regional tensions linked to Israel’s reported recognition of Somaliland.
The visit comes at a sensitive diplomatic moment, as Kenya has remained publicly silent on Israel’s move, despite Nairobi’s close ties with Tel Aviv. Kenya recently received a diplomatic gift from Israel, a development that has drawn increased scrutiny over its position on Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Israel’s reported recognition of Somaliland has sparked strong reactions from Somalia and several Arab countries, which have condemned the move as a violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. Mogadishu maintains that Somaliland remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
President Hassan Sheikh’s trip also follows the postponement of a previously planned trilateral meeting involving himself, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Kenyan President William Ruto. That meeting was expected to focus on regional security cooperation, particularly joint efforts to combat the al-Qaida-linked militant group Al-Shabab.
It remains unclear whether Tuesday’s visit will seek to revive the postponed trilateral talks or concentrate on bilateral issues, including security cooperation, diplomatic relations between Somalia and Kenya, and Nairobi’s stance on Somalia’s unity and sovereignty.
The Somali government has repeatedly rejected any form of recognition of Somaliland, warning that such actions undermine international law and threaten stability in the Horn of Africa. Observers say President Hassan Sheikh’s visit to Nairobi will be closely watched, given Kenya’s influential role in regional diplomacy and security efforts involving Somalia.
