Saudi Arabia rejects the occupation's recognition of Somali territory and supports Somali unity
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its firm support for the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia, categorically rejecting the declaration of mutual recognition between the Israeli occupation authorities and the Somaliland region. This position is consistent with the Kingdom's foreign policy, which consistently emphasizes respect for international law and the preservation of the unity and territorial integrity of Arab and Islamic states.
Rejection of unilateral and separatist actions
The ministry explained in its statement that this step constitutes a consecration of unilateral separatist measures that blatantly contradict the principles of international law and the UN Charter, which guarantees the sovereignty and national unity of states. The Kingdom indicated that attempts to impose parallel entities or legitimize secession through external channels do not serve the stability of the region, but rather further complicate the political and security landscape in the vital Horn of Africa region.
Context of the crisis and background of the Somaliland region
To understand the dimensions of this Saudi rejection, one must consider the historical context of the Somaliland region, which unilaterally declared its independence from the central government in Mogadishu in 1991 following the collapse of Siad Barre's regime. Despite enjoying relative stability and a functioning internal political system, the region has not received formal international recognition as an independent state. The international community, including the United Nations and the Arab League, considers the region an integral part of Somali territory.
Geopolitical dimensions and regional risks
Israeli intervention in this matter carries serious geopolitical implications, as the occupying authorities seek to establish a foothold in the Horn of Africa, overlooking the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—a region of paramount strategic importance to Arab national security. Observers believe that the mutual recognition represents an attempt to circumvent diplomatic isolation and exploit internal divisions in Somalia to achieve political and security gains, a move the Kingdom has warned against as a dangerous transgression threatening regional security.
Saudi Arabia's firm stance
The Kingdom concluded its statement by affirming its full support for the legitimate institutions of the Somali state and its backing for all efforts aimed at strengthening security, stability, and development in Somalia. It called upon the international community to uphold its responsibilities by rejecting any actions that could undermine Somalia's unity or incite internal strife, emphasizing that sustainable solutions can only be achieved through national dialogue under the auspices of the federal state, not through dubious alliances with occupying authorities.
