Somalis rally nationwide against Israel’s recognition of Somaliland
In Baaydhabo, the capital of South West State, protesters waved Somali flags and chanted slogans condemning Israel’s recognition. Similar demonstrations took place in Hobyo, in the central Mudug region, where participants described the move as a threat to Somalia’s territorial integrity. In Xudur, the capital of Bakool Region, demonstrators denounced Israel’s action as direct interference in Somalia’s independence.
Protests also took place in Guriceel, Galmudug State, and Laascaanood in the northeast, where crowds carried banners rejecting the recognition and called on the international community to uphold Somalia’s unity. Participants emphasized that Israel’s move violated international law and demanded that it be reversed.
Hundreds gathered in the capital, Mogadishu, including religious scholars, community elders, students, and folk poets, in a protest held at Mogadishu Stadium.
Sheikh Shafi, a religious scholar, criticized Israel for undermining Somalia’s unity and referenced its treatment of Palestinians, calling the recognition “the greatest problem we are facing today.” Sheikh Mahmud Bari said the protest demonstrated a national commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity: “It is not possible for us to allow Israel to have a presence on Somali soil. Today we know what they are doing to our Palestinian brothers.”
Somali folk poet Guure added: “This land is ours, and we will not give it up. We see that Israel is taking a hostile stance against the Islamic world.” Community elder Haad stressed national unity, saying, “We do not want our country to be divided. We desire the South and the North to live together in peace and brotherhood.”
Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state, triggering condemnation from Türkiye, Somalia’s close ally, as well as several African and Middle Eastern nations. Critics argue the move violates international law and threatens regional stability.
Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991, operates as a de facto independent administrative, political, and security entity. The Somali central government, however, has been unable to assert control over the region and continues to refuse recognition, viewing any direct engagement with Somaliland as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and unity.
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