ALBAWABA - Israel's declaration of recognition for the self-proclaimed Republic of Somaliland as an independent nation has sparked widespread disapproval throughout the Arab, Islamic, and African nations. Officials and various organizations are voicing concerns that this action contravenes international law and jeopardizes peace in the Horn of Africa.
On Friday, Israel took the unprecedented step of being the first nation to officially acknowledge Somaliland, a region that unilaterally declared its independence from Somalia back in 1991.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office framed the decision as a step "in the spirit of the Abraham Accords." It encompassed plans for full diplomatic relations and collaboration in fields like agriculture and technology.
The announcement was met with immediate disapproval from various Arab and Muslim nations. Saudi Arabia, for instance, released a statement reiterating its unwavering support for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, characterizing Israel's move as a unilateral action that contravenes international law.
Egypt, Kuwait, Jordan, and Iraq all chimed in, echoing the sentiment that the recognition of Israel's actions was a blow to the core tenets of state sovereignty and national unity.
Palestinian officials, too, expressed their alarm, cautioning that this decision could be a precursor to wider regional unrest. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry hinted at a possible connection to rumored plans to move Palestinians from Gaza, labeling the recognition a direct threat to regional stability.
Turkey didn't hold back, sharply criticizing Israel's move as a clear violation of Somalia's internal matters. Turkish officials accused the Israeli government of pursuing reckless policies that could exacerbate instability in both Africa and the Middle East, especially given their opposition to international recognition of a Palestinian state.
Regional and international organizations also added their voices to the chorus of disapproval.
African bodies voiced their own serious concerns. The African Union restated its strong support for Somalia's territorial integrity, stressing that adherence to established borders is vital for African stability. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) also opposed any unilateral recognition that goes against the United Nations Charter and African Union principles.
Analysts are concerned that Israel's recognition of Somaliland could embolden separatist movements across Africa and heighten geopolitical tensions in a region already facing difficulties.
