Reported from the source

Quick summary: Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state has triggered strong contrasting reactions: widespread anger and protests in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, while Somaliland’s capital Hargeisa celebrates the diplomatic milestone. Somalia views Somaliland as an integral part of its territory, whereas Somaliland seeks closer partnerships with Israel, citing geostrategic importance for Israel and potential security benefits for itself.

The recognition of Somaliland by Israel has significantly heightened tensions in Somalia. In Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, people have taken to the streets in protest, gathering in the football stadium, waving national flags, and rejecting Israel’s decision. They assert that Somaliland is not an independent country but a part of Somalia. One resident, Abdalla Mohamed, expressed strong opposition to the division of his country, warning that Israel’s recognition could empower terrorist groups active in Somalia. Conversely, in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, people are celebrating Israel’s recognition, viewing it as a major diplomatic achievement. Somaliland, which is roughly half the size of Germany with a population of a few million, desires a closer partnership with Israel, particularly in trade, agriculture, and technology, and hopes for increased strength and security through Israeli support. For Israel, Somaliland’s appeal lies in its crucial geostrategic location on the Gulf of Aden, directly opposite Yemen, where the Iran-backed Houthi militia controls much of the country. Somaliland is also close to the vital Red Sea strait, an area where Houthi militias previously attacked international merchant ships. Experts like Hassan Khannenje, Director of the Horn International Institute for Strategic Studies, suggest that if the Israeli army gains access to Somaliland, it could monitor and potentially attack the Houthi from close proximity, potentially leading to new regional and international conflicts. Khannenje also noted that Somaliland might allow Israel to build military bases, providing a safeguard against potential attacks from Mogadishu, the Middle East, and some Gulf states. The recognition also reignites the long-standing dispute between Somaliland and Somalia. Somaliland declared independence nearly 35 years ago during a civil war, but under international law, it is not considered an independent state and is internationally recognized as an autonomous region within Somalia. Despite this, Somaliland maintains its own government, currency, national flag, police, and army, and has considered itself an independent state for decades.

Source: www.tagesschau.de