Tel Aviv, June 14: Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, accompanied by his wife, Faradousa Mohamed Roble, is set to embark on a historic state visit to Israel, as reported by Israeli media. Somaliland diplomat Ismail Shirak also hinted at this visit on social media.
According to ‘The Jerusalem Post’, this marks the first official visit to Israel by a head of state from Somaliland. It is also the first high-level visit following Jerusalem’s formal recognition of Somaliland’s independence in December 2025. Israel was the first country to recognize Somaliland, which declared itself independent from Somalia.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, commonly known as ‘Siro’, initially planned his first official trip to Israel for the end of March. This visit will be his first official trip to Israel as president, with his stay scheduled from Sunday to Thursday. A significant moment is expected on Monday evening when the official inauguration of the Somaliland embassy in Jerusalem will take place.
This visit is seen as a symbol of the establishment of full diplomatic relations between the two parties following the recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty. Furthermore, Somaliland diplomat Ismail Shirwak shared a post on social media platform X, featuring images of the flags of Somaliland and Israel displayed in Tel Aviv. He noted that President Siro is expected to arrive in Israel ‘tomorrow’.
He wrote on X, “History is being made. The flags of Somaliland and Israel are flying side by side on the streets of Israel, showcasing the preparations for the visit of the President of the Republic of Somaliland ‘tomorrow’.”
Located on the coast of the Gulf of Aden, Somaliland is positioned at the southern entrance of the Red Sea. By recognizing this self-declared republic, Israel aims to strengthen its presence in this strategic region to counter Iran and its regional allies.
Recently, the Houthi movement, which controls significant areas across the Gulf of Aden in Yemen, has emerged as a major concern for Israel. The Houthis announced a ban on Israeli-linked vessels passing through the Red Sea, escalating regional tensions.
Supporters of close ties between the two nations believe that cooperation between Israel and Somaliland could foster economic development, maritime security, and technological innovation. Additionally, this partnership may provide Somaliland with opportunities to enhance its international participation and recognition.
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