By Shire Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 29 December 2025 The Chairman of Beder University, Lawyer Mubaarik Aar, was arrested in Hargeisa on Saturday, after questioning the deal behind Israel's recognition of Somaliland and the local administration's involvement in the Abraham Accords, an agreement aimed at enhancing relations between Israel and Arab countries.
In a press conference held in Hargeisa, Aar, known for his outspoken political views, had questioned what Somaliland could gain from Israel's recognition and why Somaliland is joining the Abraham Accords.
Among the points he raised was the public's previous opposition to Israel's actions in Gaza, and whether Somaliland could now trust Israel's gesture.
More from Somalia
The press conference was broadcast by several TV stations but the video was later removed from social media platforms following his arrest.
Aar has spent the third day in detention and it is still unknown whether he will be released. The arrest comes after Somaliland Police warned those opposed to the deal that action would be taken against them.
Aar's arrest has sparked a debate about the limits of free speech and the role of academics in questioning government policies, as crackdown on perceived decent continues.
