Israel Recognizes Somaliland: Somalia, AU Condemn Move, Citing Regional Instability

• Israel formally recognized Somaliland as an independent state, becoming the first country to do so since its 1991 breakaway from Somalia.
• Somalia, the African Union, Turkey, and Egypt strongly condemned Israel's decision, warning it threatens regional stability and undermines Somalia's sovereignty.
• Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi welcomed the recognition, calling it a "historic moment" and expressing readiness to join the Abraham Accords.
• Analysts suggest Israel's move is strategically motivated, aiming for allies in the Red Sea region, particularly against Houthis, and strengthening regional ties.
• The recognition comes despite US President Donald Trump's past dismissal of Somaliland's status and follows recent tensions over Ethiopia's port deal with Somaliland.

Why It Matters: Israel's recognition of Somaliland sparks widespread condemnation, raising concerns about regional stability.