By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, April 16, 2026 The breakaway region of Somaliland on Thursday rejected Somalia’s rejection to its diplomatic relations with Israel, after Mogadishu condemned Israel’s appointment of an ambassador assigned to Somaliland, calling it a violation of its unity and territorial integrity.
Somalia said the move breaches international law and undermines its unity, urging international organisations to oppose any move it views as recognition of Somaliland’s independence.
In response, Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said Mogadishu has no authority to interfere in its diplomatic affairs, describing Somalia’s position as “baseless.”
“The Federal Government of Somalia has no legal basis to comment on or restrict Somaliland’s diplomatic relations,” the statement said.
Somalia considers Somaliland part of its territory and has consistently opposed its efforts to establish independent foreign relations.
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Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991, says its sovereignty dates back to June 26, 1960, when it gained independence from Britain before uniting with Somalia on July 1, 1960 arguing the union lacked a legal foundation.
Israel on Wednesday appointed Michael Lotem as a non-resident ambassador to Somaliland after recognising the region in December 2025, a move Somalia strongly rejected.
Somaliland said its ties with Israel, like other partnerships, are consistent with international law and part of its sovereign rights.
Somalia has called on Israel to reconsider and urged bodies such as the United Nations and the African Union to protect its territorial integrity.
The breakaway region of Somaliland has not gained international recognition but has in recent years sought to expand its diplomatic and economic relations.