Saudi Arabia rejects Israel's recognition of Somaliland and supports unity
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its unwavering support for the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia, declaring its categorical rejection of any infringement upon Somalia's unity and territorial integrity. This reaffirmation comes at a sensitive time, as the Horn of Africa region witnesses sharp political tensions. The Kingdom emphasized that preserving Somalia's unity is a fundamental pillar for ensuring security and stability not only for Somalia, but for the entire Arab and African region.
A firm stance against Israeli violations
In a strongly worded statement, the Kingdom described the Israeli occupation authorities' recognition of the "Somaliland" region as a blatant act of aggression. Riyadh affirmed that this move constitutes a flagrant violation of the principles of international law and the UN Charter, which clearly stipulates respect for the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their internal affairs or in the respect of their internationally recognized borders. The Kingdom considered this Israeli move to be aimed solely at inciting discord and deepening divisions within the Somali state.
The roots of the crisis and the legal status of "Somaliland"
To understand the dimensions of this position, it is important to consider the historical context of the crisis. The northern region of Somaliland unilaterally declared its independence in 1991 following the collapse of the central government in Mogadishu and the overthrow of Siad Barre's regime. Despite enjoying relative stability and a functioning political system, Somaliland has not received international recognition from either the United Nations or the African Union, both of which consider it an integral part of Somalia. Based on this, Saudi Arabia has asserted that Somaliland has no legal right to enter into international agreements or exercise sovereign powers that are the exclusive prerogative of the federal government in Mogadishu.
Geopolitical dimensions and the threat to navigation in the Red Sea
Saudi concerns extend beyond the legal sphere to encompass strategic and security dimensions. The Kingdom has warned that the Israeli presence in this vital region poses a grave threat to the security of the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Given the critical importance of this waterway, through which a significant portion of global trade and energy supplies pass, any escalation or militarization of the region with Israeli support threatens global supply chains and the national security of the Red Sea littoral states.
A warning against isolation and a call to the international community
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued a warning to the self-declared Republic of Somaliland against engaging in dubious agendas orchestrated by Israel, noting that such actions could isolate the region from its Arab, Islamic, and African neighbors. Saudi Arabia called upon the international community and its sisterly and friendly nations to adopt a unified and firm stance rejecting these unilateral actions and to support the Federal Government of Somalia in extending its sovereignty over all of its national territory, thereby preserving regional and international peace and security.
