Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro has urged citizens to remain united as political pressure grows in the region following Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland.
Speaking in Hargeisa, President Irro said Somaliland has not harmed any country and is simply focused on protecting its own national interests. He acknowledged that tensions have increased, with several regional governments openly opposing Israel’s move, but stressed that unity among the people is the most important response.
“There are many conflicts going on around Somaliland,” he said. “We have not harmed anyone, and we have not taken anything from anyone. What we need now is unity and solidarity to defend our nationhood and statehood.”
In December 2025, Israel officially recognized Somaliland, becoming the first country to do so since Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991. The decision marked a major diplomatic breakthrough for Somaliland, which has operated as a self-governing territory for more than three decades but has not received broad international recognition. However, the move has also sparked strong reactions across the Horn of Africa and beyond.
The Federal Government of Somalia quickly condemned the recognition. Officials in Mogadishu described it as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Somalia continues to view Somaliland as part of its territory, despite Somaliland’s long-standing claim of independence. The Somali government has been lobbying regional and international partners in an effort to persuade Israel to reconsider its decision.
Several other countries have also voiced concern. Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Djibouti have expressed unease about the development, pointing to the fragile political climate in the Horn of Africa. Some leaders argue that recognizing Somaliland at this time could increase tensions in an already sensitive region and complicate diplomatic relations.
President Irro acknowledged the criticism but maintained that Somaliland’s path is guided by its own interests and the will of its people. He emphasized that Somaliland is not seeking conflict and has no intention of destabilizing the region. Instead, he said the government is focused on strengthening its institutions, maintaining peace internally, and building relationships based on mutual respect.
The president also took time to thank religious leaders in Somaliland for their role in addressing public concerns. In recent weeks, debates have emerged within the community, including claims circulating on social media and in political discussions about possible hidden conditions tied to the recognition. One rumor suggested that Palestinians could be relocated to Somaliland as part of broader regional politics.
Somaliland authorities have firmly denied these allegations, describing them as false and misleading. President Irro praised local sheikhs and scholars for helping clarify religious misunderstandings and calm public anxiety. He said their guidance has been important in maintaining social harmony during a period of intense debate.
Israel’s recognition represents a historic moment for Somaliland, which has sought international acknowledgment since breaking away from Somalia more than three decades ago. While the decision has been welcomed by many Somalilanders as a step toward full international recognition, it has also placed the territory at the center of a complex regional diplomatic dispute.
For now, President Irro’s message remains focused on unity. He urged citizens not to be divided by external pressure or political rhetoric. According to him, solidarity at home is the strongest foundation for defending Somaliland’s identity and future as it navigates this new and challenging chapter on the international stage.