By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, 16 April 2026 — Israel has appointed its first ambassador to Somaliland, its foreign ministry said on Wednesday, in a move likely to heighten tensions with Somalia, which considers the region part of its territory.
Michael Lotem was named as a non-resident ambassador to Somaliland, according to a statement from the Israeli Foreign Ministry. He has previously served as ambassador to Kenya, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.
The appointment follows Israel’s decision in December 2025 to establish mutual recognition with Somaliland, a step that was rejected by Somalia and criticised by several countries.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not gained widespread international recognition. It operates with its own government and security structures, while Somalia continues to assert sovereignty over the region.
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The Somali government has consistently opposed any direct engagement with Somaliland, describing such moves as a violation of its territorial integrity and national unity.
There was no immediate comment from Somali authorities on the ambassadorial appointment.
The development reflects broader geopolitical competition in the Horn of Africa, where external powers have increasingly sought to expand diplomatic and strategic ties.
Source: Anadolu Agency (AA)
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