Large scale protests have been reported in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, and in other parts of the country, denouncing Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent state.
Protesters said Israel’s move constitutes a direct attack on Somalia’s sovereignty, according to the Associated Press (AP).
As demonstrations continue at home, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has traveled to Ankara, where he held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Reports indicate that, beyond discussions related to Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, the two leaders addressed broader bilateral issues, including significant Turkish investment in Somalia.
The developments come amid shifting regional dynamics. Earlier, Somalia and Ethiopia signed an agreement that effectively sidelined a controversial memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland. That MoU had proposed granting Ethiopia access to the sea in exchange for recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign entity by Addis Ababa.
The Ankara Declaration, which underpins Somalia–Ethiopia dialogue, is reportedly still in effect. Regional organizations, including IGAD, of which Ethiopia is a member, have voiced support for Mogadishu’s position. However, Ethiopia has yet to publicly clarify its stance on Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.
