Widespread Arab and Islamic rejection of the possibility of Israel recognizing Somaliland

The diplomatic arena in the Arab and Islamic worlds is witnessing escalating and intensified activity aimed at forming a unified front to reject any steps that might lead to Israeli recognition of "Somaliland" as an independent state. These moves come in response to reports and leaks that have raised widespread concerns about Israeli attempts to bolster its influence in the Horn of Africa through the breakaway region, which Arab and Islamic states consider a direct infringement on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

Historical context and roots of the crisis

To understand the nature of this rejection, it is necessary to revisit the region's complex historical background. Somaliland unilaterally declared its independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the central government in Mogadishu and the ensuing civil war. Despite enjoying relative stability and a functioning political system, the region has not received formal international recognition from the United Nations or the international community, which continues to consider it an integral part of Somalia. The federal government in Mogadishu adheres to this principle, viewing any direct diplomatic engagement with the region as an independent state as a violation of its national sovereignty.

Strategic dimensions and security concerns

Arab and Islamic concerns are not unfounded, but rather stem from a careful assessment of the geopolitical importance of the Horn of Africa. Somaliland, situated on the coast of the Gulf of Aden, controls a vital portion of the waterways leading to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the southern entrance to the Red Sea. Observers believe that any official Israeli presence or diplomatic recognition of the region could grant Tel Aviv a strategic foothold that threatens Arab national security, particularly concerning maritime security in the Red Sea, a vital artery for global trade and for the Arab states bordering it.

The position of the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation

The current moves are based on the long-standing principles of both the League of Arab States and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The Arab League has repeatedly affirmed the need to respect Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rejecting any attempts to partition it or treat its regions as separate entities. Similarly, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation supports the Somali government’s efforts to extend its authority over the entire national territory. These organizations view the possibility of Israeli intervention as a factor that could exacerbate internal conflicts and destabilize the region, rather than foster dialogue and national reconciliation among Somali factions.

Expected repercussions

Any move toward Israeli recognition of "Somaliland" could further complicate matters in a region already suffering from security instability. This is expected to strain relations between African and Arab states on one hand, and international actors in the region on the other. Therefore, Arab diplomacy is currently working to preempt any developments by intensifying communication with international powers to emphasize the dangers of such steps and their negative impact on international peace and security.