By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Somalia, 18 June 2026 - The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has called for restraint and renewed respect for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity following reports of the opening of a Somaliland embassy in Jerusalem.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the regional bloc’s Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to the Federal Republic of Somalia’s sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity, citing obligations under the IGAD Treaty, the African Union Constitutive Act and the United Nations Charter.
The statement comes amid emerging reports regarding Somaliland’s diplomatic presence in Jerusalem, a development that has drawn regional attention given the longstanding dispute over Somaliland’s status.
“IGAD has taken note of reports concerning the opening of a Somaliland embassy in Jerusalem and reiterates its longstanding position that Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity must be fully respected,” the Secretariat said.
The regional organization expressed concern that actions perceived as challenging Somalia’s sovereignty could exacerbate tensions in the Horn of Africa and negatively affect regional stability.
“The Secretariat expresses concern over any action or initiative that undermines the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” the statement added.
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IGAD warned that such developments risk heightening tensions and could undermine ongoing efforts aimed at promoting peace, stability and cooperation across the region.
The bloc emphasized that preserving Somalia’s unity remains a key principle of regional and international frameworks and urged all parties to act in a manner that supports dialogue, stability and respect for internationally recognized borders.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has operated with its own government and institutions for more than three decades. However, it is not internationally recognized as a sovereign state, and Somalia continues to regard the territory as an integral part of its national territory.
IGAD, which comprises countries from the Horn of Africa, has consistently supported Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while backing efforts to promote peace, security and development in the region.