Pakistan, alongside more than two dozen countries and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, has strongly condemned the visit of an Israeli official to Somaliland. The joint response described the move as illegal and a direct violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and international law.
The condemnation followed a high-profile visit by Israel’s foreign minister to the Somaliland region earlier this week. Somalia immediately termed the visit an unauthorised incursion into its territory. The visit also came weeks after Israel announced its decision to recognise Somaliland, a move widely rejected by the international community.
In a joint statement, foreign ministers from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Turkiye, Yemen and several other countries expressed serious concern. They also reiterated a previous declaration rejecting any recognition of Somaliland as a separate entity.
The statement stressed that Somaliland remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia. According to the ministers, Israel’s actions undermine Somalia’s territorial integrity and violate the principles of the United Nations Charter. They warned that such steps risk destabilising an already fragile region.
The ministers further emphasised that encouraging secessionist agendas threatens regional peace. They argued that unilateral actions weaken established international norms and fuel political uncertainty across Africa. As a result, they urged all states to respect internationally recognised borders.
The joint statement reaffirmed full support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty and political independence. It praised Somalia’s commitment to peaceful diplomacy and adherence to international law despite ongoing challenges. Moreover, the ministers pledged continued diplomatic and legal support for Somalia’s efforts to protect its territorial integrity.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has never gained international recognition. Although it operates with its own institutions, most countries fear that recognising it could encourage separatist movements elsewhere in Africa. Therefore, global consensus continues to support Somalia’s territorial unity.
The statement concluded by urging Israel to reverse its recognition of Somaliland immediately. The ministers also called on Israel to honour international obligations and refrain from actions that undermine sovereignty. They stressed that respect for international law remains essential for global stability.
This unified stance reflects growing concern over unilateral decisions affecting sensitive regions. Pakistan and its partners maintain that lasting peace depends on dialogue, lawful conduct and respect for sovereignty.
