Israels Recognition of Somaliland Sparks International Backlash and Condemnation

Israel Recognizes Somaliland in Geopolitical Move

On December 26, Israel officially recognized Somaliland, a breakaway region in northwest Somalia. The move is seen as part of a broader geopolitical strategy by Israel.

The recognition was not driven by the aspirations of communities living in Somaliland but rather by shifting global power dynamics and competition for influence in the Horn of Africa. Several countries, including Israel, Gulf nations, Turkey, Egypt, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and China, are engaged in the region.

Israel’s recognition of Somaliland is part of a growing trend of using secessionist movements as tools of geopolitical strategy across the Middle East and Horn of Africa. This “Axis of Secession” targets countries with weak central governments, aiming to bolster breakaway regions and cultivate dependent entities willing to align with Israel.

The move has sparked competition over access to the Red Sea, particularly the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital maritime chokepoint. Control of this region confers significant leverage over international trade. Somaliland’s coastline is seen as a strategic prize, and its recognition by Israel aims to entrench itself within the Horn of Africa’s geography.

In January 2024, Ethiopia signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Somaliland, offering political recognition in exchange for access to the sea. However, this deal was short-lived, and Somalia and Ethiopia later agreed on a framework reaffirming Somalia’s sovereignty.

China has also become increasingly active in the region, drawn by Somaliland’s decision to cultivate ties with Taiwan. China supports Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, using its diplomatic and economic leverage to counter what it sees as challenges to its “One China” policy.

The recognition of Somaliland by Israel is a complex issue, with multiple players vying for influence in the region. The move has sparked intense competition, highlighting the fragility of arrangements and the intensity of geopolitical rivalries surrounding Somaliland’s status.

Source: Al Jazeera