Trump Questions Somaliland's Identity After Israel's Recognition

• Israel recognizes Somaliland as an independent state and agrees to establish full diplomatic relations, a move welcomed by Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi.
• US President Donald Trump questioned "What Somaliland is?" and seemed unimpressed by its interest in Abraham Accords or offering land for a US naval base.
• Somalia and the African Union strongly criticized Israel's decision, reiterating Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia and warning of a dangerous precedent.
• Somaliland is a self-declared republic that broke from Somalia in 1991, functioning as a de facto independent entity for over three decades without international recognition.
• Despite its strategic location and stability, lack of recognition has hindered economic development, a key focus for President Abdullahi's administration.

Why It Matters: Israel's recognition of Somaliland sparks international debate and highlights the territory's long quest for sovereignty.