Cabinet Condemns Somaliland Leader’s Israel Visit amid Growing Diplomatic Dispute

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The Council of Ministers has condemned Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro”‘s recent visit to Israel, describing it as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and a move that contravenes international law and constitutional principles.

The statement was issued during the weekly meeting of the Council of Ministers chaired by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre in Mogadishu.

According to the cabinet, Somaliland’s diplomatic engagement with Israel, including the opening of a diplomatic mission in Jerusalem, runs contrary to Somalia’s constitution, international law and principles safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

“The Council of Ministers strongly condemns the visit undertaken by the leader of the Somaliland administration to Palestinian territory occupied by Israel,” the government said in a statement.

The remarks come amid escalating tensions between Mogadishu and Hargeisa following Israel’s decision last year to become the first United Nations member state to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state. Earlier this week, Somaliland President Irro concluded a high-profile visit to Israel during which the two sides announced expanded cooperation in areas including security, technology, agriculture, water management and investment.

Somalia has repeatedly rejected any diplomatic engagement with Somaliland conducted outside the framework of the Federal Government, arguing that such actions undermine the country’s sovereignty and internationally recognized borders.

The cabinet’s position also follows a statement issued by the regional bloc IGAD, which reaffirmed its support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity amid reports of Somaliland’s plans to establish a diplomatic presence in Jerusalem.

Beyond the diplomatic dispute, the cabinet reviewed national security, economic and social affairs, and received updates on preparations for celebrations marking Somalia’s Independence and Unity Days later this month.

Ministers were also briefed on this year’s national examinations for secondary and intermediate schools, as well as progress under the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, which supports Somalia’s development priorities.

The cabinet further welcomed the completion of what it described as peaceful one-person, one-vote elections in South West State and approved Mohamed Hassan Nur, a senior legal expert, as a member of Somalia’s Independent Human Rights Commission following a competitive recruitment process to fill a vacant position.

The meeting concluded with ministers commending Somali security forces for ongoing operations aimed at maintaining security in Mogadishu and preventing attacks targeting the capital.