A diplomatic consensus has emerged across Africa and part of the Middle East, as a number of countries have opposed Israel’s recent recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland.
This stance, articulated by both continental and international bodies, raises an alarm over the potential for renewed instability in a volatile region.
The African Union (AU), the continent’s premier political body, set the tone as Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Commission Chairperson, stated that the AU unequivocally rejected any action aimed at recognizing Somaliland as an independent entity. He reaffirmed that it remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Grounding its position in the foundational principles of the Organization of African Unity, specifically the intangibility of borders inherited at independence, the AU warned that such recognition risks setting a dangerous precedent that could undermine peace and stability across Africa.
The Commission reiterated its unwavering support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as for the Somali government’s efforts to consolidate peace and rebuild state institutions. This continental position was further amplified by a broad coalition of nations, whom presented a united front.
The signatories included Jordan, Egypt, Algeria, Comoros, Djibouti, Gambia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Turkey, Yemen, the Federal Republic of Somalia itself and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Together, they condemned Israel’s recognition in the strongest terms, labeling it a grave violation of international law and the United Nations Charter.
The coalition emphasized the serious repercussions for peace and security in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, a critical global waterway, warning that such a move threatens international peace. They also expressed full support for Somalia’s sovereignty and rejected any measures undermining its unity.
Additionally, they rejected any potential link between this recognition and attempts to forcibly displace the Palestinian people, framing both as unacceptable challenges to the established international order based on the sovereignty of states.
These collective voices argue that recognizing breakaway regions sets a perilous precedent, one that could embolden secessionist movements elsewhere and erode the very foundations of the current system.
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