OIC and Muslim Nations Strongly Condemn Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland Region
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), along with Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, and several other Muslim countries, have strongly condemned Israel’s decision to recognize the Somaliland region. They described the move as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In a joint statement by the foreign ministers of these countries, it was declared that the recognition of Somaliland, located in northwestern Somalia, contradicts the fundamental principles of international law and the respect for recognized national borders. They emphasized that any action aimed at weakening Somalia’s national unity and sovereignty is absolutely unacceptable.
The statement further expressed full support for the sovereignty of Somalia’s federal government and warned that such decisions could have negative consequences for regional peace and stability, further complicating existing crises.
At the same time, the Taliban administration issued a statement on Sunday condemning Israel’s action, calling it a violation of international laws and an attempt to divide a Muslim country. The Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that such decisions may lead to increased tensions in the region.
The Islamic countries’ statement also stressed that the recognition of Somaliland should in no way be linked to the Palestinian issue. According to them, the Palestinian cause is a fundamental and constant position for the Muslim world, and any speculation in this regard is strongly rejected.
Somaliland declared its independence from Somalia in 1991 and has maintained its own administrative, political, and security structures, effectively operating independently. However, it has not been recognized by the international community to date. The federal government of Somalia has consistently asserted that Somaliland is an integral part of its territory and rejects any foreign recognition of its independence.
