Pakistan has issued a strong condemnation of Israel's formal recognition of Somalia's breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent sovereign state, labeling the move "illegal" and "provocative." In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on December 27, 2025, Islamabad rejected any actions undermining Somalia's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
"Pakistan strongly condemns any attempts to undermine the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Somalia and rejects, in this regard, the announcement made by Israel recognising the independence of the so-called Somaliland region of the Federal Republic of Somalia," the ministry declared. It described the recognition as a "flagrant violation of international law" that threatens peace and stability not only in Somalia but across the broader region, urging the international community to reject such actions and prevent Israel from disrupting ongoing efforts for regional harmony.
Pakistan reaffirmed its "complete support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity" of Somalia, a fellow Muslim-majority nation. The statement also linked the issue to broader concerns, reiterating unwavering support for the Palestinian people amid ongoing hardships.
The condemnation follows Israel's announcement on December 26, 2025, when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared formal recognition of Somaliland, making Israel the first UN member state to do so. Netanyahu, alongside Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, signed a joint declaration with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, establishing full diplomatic relations, including embassies and ambassadors. Netanyahu framed it "in the spirit of the Abraham Accords," pledging immediate cooperation in agriculture, health, technology, economy, and regional security.
Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991 following Somalia's civil war, has functioned as a de facto state with its own government, elections, currency, and institutions, achieving relative stability. However, it lacked formal recognition until Israel's decision. Somalia views Somaliland as an integral part of its territory and any external recognition as a sovereignty violation.
The move has sparked widespread backlash. Somalia called it an "unlawful step" and "deliberate attack" on its sovereignty. The African Union rejected any recognition, reaffirming Somaliland as part of Somalia. Countries including Egypt, Turkey, Djibouti, and Saudi Arabia condemned it as interference and a dangerous precedent. The Arab League and Gulf Cooperation Council echoed similar concerns over violations of international law.
Pakistan's stance aligns with its consistent support for Somalia and opposition to unilateral changes to recognized borders. As a key player in Islamic solidarity forums, Islamabad's response underscores broader Muslim-world unease with Israel's expanding diplomatic outreach in Africa.
The development could influence regional dynamics in the Horn of Africa and Red Sea, areas of strategic importance amid ongoing conflicts.
