Israel Becomes First Nation to Officially Recognize Somaliland, Netanyahu Declares
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Araweelo News Network,
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Jerusalem(ANN) – June 15, 2026 | Araweelo News Network
In what was described as a historic diplomatic milestone, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hosted the President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), at the Prime Minister’s Office in Jerusalem on June 15, 2026.
The meeting marked the first official visit by a Somaliland President to Israel following Israel’s formal recognition of Somaliland. The two leaders first held a private one-on-one discussion before leading expanded bilateral talks with their respective delegations.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Netanyahu and President Cirro signed a Joint Declaration aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two states across multiple sectors, including water management, agriculture, technology, security, healthcare, and economic development.
Calling the occasion “a historic moment,” Prime Minister Netanyahu declared that Israel was proud to become the first government in the world to officially recognize Somaliland and expressed confidence that other nations would eventually follow suit.
Netanyahu said the relationship reflected a “deep spiritual bond” between the Jewish people and Somaliland, drawing parallels between the historical struggles for national recognition experienced by both peoples.
The Israeli Prime Minister also welcomed Somaliland’s decision to establish an embassy in Jerusalem, describing it as a gesture of mutual recognition and friendship while emphasizing Jerusalem’s significance as Israel’s historic capital.
Expanding on the broader significance of the agreement, Netanyahu stated that Israel and Somaliland, despite being situated on opposite sides of the Red Sea, share a commitment to democracy, freedom, and economic opportunity in the face of regional extremism and instability.
He stressed that the partnership would focus on practical development by promoting investment in agriculture, hospitals, technology, businesses, and job creation rather than conflict and confrontation.
“The enemies of peace build tunnels, missiles and terror armies,” Netanyahu said, adding that Israel and Somaliland would instead build partnerships, innovation, prosperity, and a future based on hope and security.
The visit and accompanying declaration are expected to mark a significant new chapter in relations between Israel and Somaliland, with both governments signalling their intention to deepen diplomatic, economic, and strategic cooperation.
Keywords: Somaliland, Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, President Cirro, Jerusalem, diplomatic recognition, Somaliland recognition, Middle East diplomacy, Red Sea security, bilateral relations.