Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Saar, has made a landmark visit to Somaliland, marking the first high-level trip since Israel became the first country to recognize the breakaway region’s independence. While Somaliland’s leaders hailed the visit as a turning point in bilateral ties, Somalia condemned it as an illegal incursion into its territory. Israel’s recognition of Somaliland has triggered a sharp regional backlash. The African Union even convened an emergency meeting to address the crisis. Regional powers, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye, have rallied to support Somalia’s territorial unity. The controversy is further fueled by allegations—strongly denied by Somaliland—that recognition was tied to secret security or resettlement deals. Set against rising Red Sea tensions, Saar’s visit underscores how Somaliland’s status has become a flashpoint in broader regional power struggles.
Aljazeera
