Israel Recognizes Somaliland, Complicating Turkey’s Regional Strategy

Tel Aviv: Israel has officially recognized the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, becoming the first United Nations member to do so. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signed a joint declaration with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi in a virtual ceremony on Friday. The move has drawn strong criticism from both Turkey and Somalia.

Observers say Israel’s decision is part of Netanyahu’s broader strategy to counter Turkey, following his recent trilateral meetings with Greece and Cyprus, which excluded Ankara from Gaza-related discussions.

Expanding Ties with Somaliland
Netanyahu indicated that Israel plans to expand its relationship with Somaliland across agriculture, healthcare, technology, and economic sectors. He also mentioned informing U.S. President Donald Trump about Somaliland’s interest in joining the Abraham Accords.

Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has long sought international recognition. While its efforts have met limited success, Israel’s endorsement could reshape its diplomatic standing in the coming years. Somaliland has existing diplomatic contacts with countries including Ethiopia, the United States, and the UAE, which is believed to maintain a military base in the region.

Turkey’s Strong Reaction
Turkey reacted angrily to Israel’s recognition. Öncü Keseli, spokesperson for the Turkish Foreign Ministry, described the move as an unlawful act by Netanyahu’s government aimed at creating instability regionally and globally. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has reportedly discussed the matter with counterparts from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, and has contacted the Trump administration.

Strategic Importance of Somalia to Turkey
Somalia is a cornerstone of Turkey’s Africa policy and hosts its largest foreign military base on the continent. Turkey provides extensive military, economic, and humanitarian support to Somalia and openly supports its territorial integrity. Israel’s recognition of Somaliland is viewed by Ankara as a direct challenge to its regional interests, security cooperation with Somalia, and broader influence across Africa.

Economic Implications
Beyond strategic concerns, Turkey may also face economic setbacks. It has been expanding energy and drilling operations along the Somali coast, and the recognition of Somaliland could complicate these initiatives. Over the past year, Turkey has strengthened its activities in the region through multiple agreements, all of which may now be at risk.