By Zamzam Osman - Reporter
Somalia, 22 April 2026 Somaliland defended its ties with Israel after Iran criticized Israel’s appointment of an ambassador to Somaliland.
In a statement posted on social media on Tuesday, Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was a “sovereign, stable democracy” that determines its own foreign relations and seeks constructive engagement with all nations.
“Our alliances are decided by us and our ties with Israel are unshakeable,” the ministry said.
The remarks followed criticism from Iran, which said Israel’s move violated Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but is not internationally recognized as a sovereign state.
There was no immediate response from Somalia’s federal government to Somaliland’s latest statement.
The exchange underscores rising diplomatic tensions in the Horn of Africa, where competing geopolitical interests continue to shape regional dynamics.