By Shire Abdi - Reporter
Saudi Arabia, 11 January 2025 The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Saturday condemned Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, calling the move a "flagrant violation" of international law that threatens to destabilize the Horn of Africa.
At an extraordinary session of the Council of Foreign Ministers held at its headquarters in Jeddah, the 57-member body adopted a resolution reaffirming its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The meeting followed an announcement by Israel to recognize the region, a move the OIC described as a dangerous precedent.
OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha told the opening session that the ministerial meeting was being held at a delicate time to address serious developments affecting Somali sovereignty. He said the move constituted a direct threat to regional security and stability, adding that the bloc would maintain a unified and firm position in support of Somalia’s unity.
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The OIC leadership noted that the session was a follow-up to emergency talks held earlier this month, reflecting a collective concern among member states regarding the potential for further regional fragmentation.
On the Palestinian conflict, the bloc urged the international community to ensure the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid through all crossings and called for an international conference in Cairo to oversee the reconstruction of Gaza.
The meeting of foreign ministers was preceded by a preparatory session of senior officials. The OIC concluded by warning against any plans for the annexation of Palestinian land or the forced displacement of its people, characterizing such actions as a breach of international resolutions.
