In a landmark development, the self-declared Republic of Somaliland has appointed its first ambassador to Israel, marking a significant step in formalizing bilateral relations. This comes after Israel became the first UN member state to officially recognize Somaliland’s independence in December 2025.

The appointment was confirmed on February 25, 2026, when Somaliland’s presidency named Dr. Mohamed Hagi as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Israel. Israel has officially accepted the appointment, signaling intentions to deepen cooperation across diplomacy, trade, and development.

 Background: Somaliland’s Quest for Recognition

Since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland has maintained its own government, currency, and democratic institutions. However, it has not received formal international recognition — until Israel’s recognition in late 2025.

This diplomatic move underscores Somaliland’s strategic position in the Horn of Africa and its growing importance on the global stage. Israel’s recognition and the ambassador exchange provide Somaliland with a platform to pursue further diplomatic engagement with other nations.

The Appointment and Diplomatic Exchange

Ambassador: Dr. Mohamed Hagi (Mohamed Omar Haji Mohamud)

Host Country: Israel

Significance: First-ever diplomatic envoy from Somaliland to a recognized UN member state

Reciprocal Plans: Israel is expected to appoint its ambassador to Somaliland, completing a two-way diplomatic channel

This exchange paves the way for cooperation in infrastructure, technology, water management, and security — sectors critical to Somaliland’s development.

Regional and International Reactions

The announcement has drawn mixed reactions:

Somalia strongly opposes the recognition, claiming it violates Somalia’s sovereignty.

African Union & Arab League members expressed concern over regional stability.

The United States maintained its long-standing neutral stance on Somaliland’s status.

Despite criticism, Somaliland’s government sees this as a step toward legitimizing its autonomy and attracting international partners.

Strategic Implications

The ambassadorial exchange opens avenues for:

Official visits and bilateral talks – Somaliland’s president plans a first-ever trip to Israel in March 2026.

Development projects – Israel has already begun technical cooperation programs in water and infrastructure.

Regional diplomacy – This move could set a precedent for other nations to engage diplomatically with Somaliland.

Experts note that while the recognition is symbolic internationally, it strengthens Somaliland’s negotiating position on the world stage.

Legal and Political Context

Although Israel recognizes Somaliland, most countries still consider it part of Somalia. International law remains ambiguous, and Somaliland continues to pursue recognition through pragmatic diplomacy and stability.

The ambassadorial appointment is a practical assertion of statehood, demonstrating that Somaliland can conduct formal international relations despite its limited recognition.

Conclusion

The appointment of Somaliland’s first ambassador to Israel is more than a ceremonial milestone. It represents:

A historic diplomatic breakthrough

A strategic partnership in the Horn of Africa

A step toward greater international recognition

For Somaliland, this is an affirmation of its self-governance, stability, and resilience. For Israel, it strengthens influence in the Horn of Africa and opens opportunities for development and security cooperation.

As bilateral relations deepen, the world will be watching how this relationship shapes regional dynamics and Somaliland’s diplomatic future.