HARGEISA — Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar visited Somaliland nearly two weeks after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally recognized the territory as an independent state, Israeli media reported.
The decision sparked international debate and anger, with numerous countries and organizations expressing concern over potential impacts on stability in the Horn of Africa and Somalia’s territorial integrity.
According to diplomatic sources cited by Israeli broadcaster i24NEWS, Saar is expected to meet with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Cirro) during his visit.
The discussions are reportedly set to focus on diplomatic relations, political cooperation, as well as security and economic matters.
While Israeli media have detailed the visit, Somaliland authorities have yet to officially confirm it, and no statements have been released by the presidency or the foreign ministry.
Meanwhile, Somalia’s federal government has repeatedly rejected any recognition of Somaliland, describing such moves as violations of the country’s sovereignty and territorial unity.
The visit comes amid growing political and strategic competition in the Horn of Africa, highlighting the region’s increasing importance on the global diplomatic stage.
