Saudi Arabia rejects Israeli recognition of Somaliland and supports Mogadishu's sovereignty
In a firm stance reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to supporting the stability of Arab states and preserving their resources, Riyadh reaffirmed its unequivocal support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, considering this principle an essential and indispensable pillar for the stability of the Somali state and the strengthening of the security system in the entire region.
This strong Saudi move comes in response to the announcement issued by the Israeli occupation authorities regarding their recognition of the “Somaliland” region, a step which the Kingdom described as a blatant act of aggression that threatens the sovereignty of a sister Arab state and constitutes a flagrant violation of the established principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, which clearly stipulates respect for the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their internal affairs or infringement upon their territorial integrity.
Legally and historically, the Kingdom emphasized the invalidity of any sovereign actions taken by the "Somaliland" region, asserting that the region has no right to conclude international agreements or obtain independent diplomatic recognition, as these powers remain the exclusive prerogative of the Federal Government in Mogadishu. It is worth noting that Somaliland unilaterally declared its independence in 1991 following the collapse of the Somali central government, but the international community, the United Nations, and the African Union have not recognized this secession, maintaining their commitment to the unity of Somalia as a single entity.
On the geopolitical front, the Kingdom warned of the dangerous implications of this Israeli intervention in the vital Horn of Africa region. Israeli recognition not only targets Somalia but also casts a dark shadow on security and stability in the Red Sea region and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial artery for global trade and energy supplies. Riyadh believes that Israel's attempts to establish a foothold in this strategic location through the gateway of secession pose a direct threat to Arab national security and the safety of maritime navigation amidst the complex regional circumstances.
In a clear message, the Kingdom indicated that the best interests of the people of Somaliland lie in preserving their Arab, African, and Islamic ties, rather than engaging in dubious agendas led by Israel, which has a long history of destabilizing tendencies. It warned that such alliances could transform the region into a hotbed of international conflict and tension, isolating its people from their natural environment and their inherent belonging to the unified Somali people.
The Kingdom concluded its position by calling on the international community and friendly countries to take a unified stance rejecting these unilateral actions, and to work diligently to protect regional peace and security, and to ensure respect for the sovereignty of states and their legitimate right to preserve their national territorial integrity against any partition plans.
