Somaliland president makes historic official visit to Jerusalem

International Desk, PNN

Israel has officially received Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi on a state visit in Jerusalem, sparking renewed international discussion over growing diplomatic and security ties between Israel and the self-declared African state.

Reports say the president arrived in Israel last Sunday, marking the first official visit by a Somaliland head of state. Earlier this year, Israel reportedly recognized Somaliland’s independence, although it is still internationally considered part of Somalia.

During the visit, Abdullahi said, “For 35 years we have sought recognition from the world. Israel is the first to recognize us.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said recognition of small nations carries significance based on historical Jewish experience.

A strategic cooperation agreement was signed between the two sides covering security, trade, and regional cooperation.

Experts say Somaliland’s location in the Horn of Africa, near the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, gives it strategic importance for Israel, especially amid tensions involving Yemen’s Houthi group and shipping security in the Red Sea.

The president also met Israeli President Isaac Herzog and other officials in Jerusalem and visited the tomb of Theodor Herzl.

A Somaliland embassy was inaugurated in West Jerusalem, which has sparked international controversy as most countries do not recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

Palestinian authorities, the Arab League, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) strongly criticized the move. Somalia also warned it could increase regional tensions.

Analysts say the developing relationship reflects deeper geopolitical and security interests in the Horn of Africa region.