Republic of Somaliland President Welcomes Israel’s Recognition, Signals Intent to Join Abraham Accords

In an official declaration released today, Republic of Somaliland President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro welcomed Israel’s recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty and independence as a “historic and principled decision.

“The statement, issued by the Republic of Somaliland president, described the recognition as a major breakthrough in the self-declared republic’s decades-long effort to gain international legitimacy.

President Irro expressed deep appreciation for the move, which he said reaffirms Somaliland’s “historical, legal, and moral entitlement to statehood.” He highlighted the mutual respect and shared interests between the two peoples and praised Somaliland’s reputation as a stable, democratic, and responsible actor in the Horn of Africa.

In direct response to Israel’s recognition, the Republic of Somaliland formally declared its intention to accede to the Abraham Accords, the U.S.-mediated framework promoting normalization and cooperation between Israel and Arab and Muslim-majority states.

The declaration states:
“Guided by a vision of advancing regional and global peace, the Republic of Somaliland hereby expresses its firm intention to accede to the Abraham Accords. Through its endorsement of this framework for cooperation and dialogue, Somaliland reaffirms its commitment to building constructive partnerships, promoting mutual prosperity, and contributing meaningfully to peace and stability across the Middle East and Africa.

“The Somaliland government further confirmed the immediate establishment of full diplomatic relations with the State of Israel. Both sides pledged to deepen cooperation in a wide range of areas, guided by principles of mutual respect, friendship, and shared values.

The announcement follows Israel’s formal recognition of Somaliland on December 26, 2025, marking the first time since Somaliland reclaimed its independence from Somalia in 1991 that any country has officially recognized it as a sovereign state.

The declaration has been met with celebration among Somaliland’s populace both at home and abroad.