Hundreds Rally In Mogadishu Against Israeli Recognition Of Somaliland

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Hundreds of people protested in Mogadishu against what they described as Israeli interference in Somalia’s internal affairs, following reports that Israel’s leadership had indicated support for recognising Somaliland as an independent state.

The demonstration took place at the Taleex junction in the Hodan district, where crowds, many of them young people, chanted slogans in support of Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity and rejected any foreign recognition of breakaway regions.

Protesters said the rally was triggered by remarks attributed to Israel’s prime minister earlier this month suggesting possible recognition of Somaliland, a move Somalia’s federal government has strongly opposed.

“This is about defending our sovereignty and unity,” said one demonstrator, adding that Somalis were united in rejecting what they see as a violation of international law.

Banadir Region Youth Chairman Omar Farouq said the protest reflected a shared national position. “Somali youth are standing together to defend their country,” he said.

Somalia’s federal government has repeatedly said Somaliland remains an integral part of the country and has warned that any unilateral recognition by foreign states undermines Somalia’s sovereignty.

The protest highlighted rising public anger in the capital and added pressure on international actors to respect Somalia’s territorial integrity amid heightened diplomatic tensions over the issue.