The Federal Government of Somalia has strongly condemned Israel’s announcement of the appointment of an ambassador to Hargeisa, as well as the laying of a foundation stone for a building designated as an embassy in Somaliland.
In a press release issued on November 3, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation stated that these actions—taken without the authorization of the Federal Government of Somalia—violate the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity.
The Somali government declared these actions null and void, asserting that they carry no legal effect. It further reiterated that Hargeisa and the North-Western region remain an inseparable part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
The Ministry noted that the establishment of diplomatic relations and the opening of permanent diplomatic missions require the consent of the sovereign state, in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
It added that unilateral actions cannot circumvent this requirement, nor can they alter the status of Somali territory. Furthermore, the Government of Somalia stated that these actions reinforce the recognition [of claims] announced by Israel in December 2025—a move previously rejected by the African Union, the regional bloc IGAD, the Arab League, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
The press release also expressed concern regarding the security situation in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Government of Somalia noted that actions fostering division—while disregarding internationally recognized borders—risk further escalating regional tensions.
The Federal Government of Somalia has called on Israel to immediately reverse these measures, and has urged other nations and international organizations to reject them and refrain from any actions that might lend them legitimacy.
Finally, Somalia asserted its right to pursue all appropriate diplomatic, political, and legal measures—in accordance with international law—to defend its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs concluded its press release by calling for respect for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing that the unity of the Somali nation is not open to negotiation.