Somali President Outlines Strategy to Counter Recognition of Somaliland, Emphasizes National Unity
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has said his government is working with regional and international partners, including Saudi Arabia, to counter what he described as recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland by Israel, warning that such a move threatens Somalia’s sovereignty and regional stability.
The president said Somalia’s unity is a “red line” and stressed that Mogadishu has taken firm political and legal positions to protect national sovereignty. He cautioned that some regional actors may view the recognition as an opportunity to pursue short-term interests, at the expense of Somalia’s territorial integrity and peace in the Horn of Africa.
Mohamud described any recognition of Somaliland as an independent state as a clear violation of international law, the United Nations Charter and African Union resolutions that uphold respect for inherited borders in Africa.
He said Somalia has adopted a three-track response, beginning with diplomatic action through international organizations including the United Nations, African Union and Organization of Islamic Cooperation to reject and invalidate the move. Somalia has also raised the issue at the UN Security Council, calling it a direct violation of its sovereignty.
The president welcomed statements of support from regional and international bodies, saying they reflect broad opposition to any attempt to divide Somalia or undermine its territorial integrity.
He said the second track involves coordination to build a unified Arab, Islamic and African position, praising Saudi Arabia for taking an early and clear stance in support of Somalia’s unity. He said the Saudi position reflects a long-standing commitment to state sovereignty and regional stability.
The third track, he added, focuses on strengthening internal national dialogue to address political challenges within the framework of a single Somali state, without external interference.
Mohamud warned that allowing such recognition to stand could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging separatist movements across Africa and the Arab world. He said instability in Somalia would have wider consequences for the Red Sea region, affecting international trade and energy security.
He also suggested the move goes beyond political symbolism, arguing that it could be aimed at establishing a strategic presence in the Horn of Africa near key global shipping routes. He said Somalia would not allow itself to become an arena for regional or international rivalries.
The president described relations with Saudi Arabia as deep and strategic, saying the Kingdom remains a key partner in supporting Somalia’s stability, development and regional security. He said recent Saudi statements rejecting any attempt to divide Somalia were welcomed in Mogadishu and sent a strong message about the importance of respecting national sovereignty.
