Israel and Somaliland have announced plans to establish mutual embassies in Jerusalem and Hargeisa, marking a significant step in diplomatic relations between the two sides.
Under the agreement, Somaliland will open an embassy in Jerusalem while Israel will establish diplomatic representation in Hargeisa, the capital of the self-declared republic. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but remains internationally unrecognised by most countries and organisations.
The development is expected to strengthen political, economic, and security cooperation between Israel and Somaliland. Officials from both sides reportedly discussed trade, infrastructure investment, regional security, and technology partnerships as part of the growing relationship.
The announcement is likely to draw criticism across parts of the Muslim world due to the ongoing Genocide in Gaza and the sensitive status of Jerusalem. Somalia has historically supported the Palestinian cause and does not recognise Somaliland as an independent state.
The agreement could also increase regional tensions in the Horn of Africa, where international competition over ports, trade routes, and political influence has continued to intensify in recent years.
