Tel Aviv, May 18: Somaliland’s first ambassador, Mohamed Haji, received a warm welcome during a historic ceremony in Israel. In Jerusalem, Ambassador Haji presented his diplomatic credentials to President Isaac Herzog, emphasizing that the relationship between Israel and Somaliland is “strategic.”
According to the presidential office, Haji stated, “We have established a strong relationship that is strategic in nature, opening pathways for development, political cooperation, security collaboration, and connections between our peoples.”
He expressed gratitude on behalf of the Somaliland people, noting that Israel was among the few countries that recognized Somaliland in 1960. Haji also highlighted that even after 35 years of independence and sovereignty, Israel was the first to recognize Somaliland once again.
“Our relationship is not just between two governments; it is also between the people of Israel and Somaliland. In many places across Somaliland, people can be seen waving Israeli flags, whether in urban or rural areas,” he remarked.
Foreign Minister Gidon Saar also met with Haji, congratulating him on Somaliland’s Independence Day. Saar took to social media platform X to affirm, “I will continue to strengthen relations with Somaliland.”
On April 26 of this year, the Israeli cabinet approved the appointment of Michael Lotem as the country’s first ambassador to Somaliland. Saar announced Lotem’s name on April 15. Somaliland declared its independence from Somalia in 1991, but it has yet to receive recognition from most countries.
Several Muslim-majority nations, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Indonesia, issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s move, labeling it a “clear violation” of Somalia’s sovereignty. Notably, Israel announced its recognition of Somaliland as an independent country on December 26, 2025. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel plans to enhance cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology, and economic sectors.
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Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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