Historic Visit: Israel's Foreign Minister Arrives in Somaliland

Thu Jan 08 2026 11:09:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Gideon Saar’s landmark visit to Somaliland underscores Israel's recognition of the region as an independent entity, a move met with mixed reactions globally. Somaliland's president praises the recognition while Somalia expresses outrage.

Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has made a historic visit to Somaliland, following Israel's recent recognition of the region as an independent state. This recognition, which sparked significant controversy, has led to Somalia’s strong condemnation. Saar’s visit aims to bolster political and strategic partnerships, marking a pivotal moment in Somaliland's quest for international legitimacy.

Israel's foreign minister has arrived in the breakaway state of Somaliland, marking the first official visit since Israel controversially recognised Somaliland as an independent country.

Gideon Saar landed in capital city Hargeisa on Tuesday and met with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, government sources there told the BBC.

Last month Israel became the first country in the world to recognise Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia more than 30 years ago.

Somaliland's president called Israel's move a historic moment, but Somalia furiously rejected the development as an attack on its sovereignty.

The Israeli foreign ministry has not publicly commented on Saar's trip, but a diplomatic source in Somaliland told the BBC that the visit is intended to advance political and strategic partnerships.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, following the overthrow of Somali military dictator Siad Barre. However, the region remains largely unrecognised globally, and Somalia considers it an integral part of its territory.

Israel's recognition of Somaliland was unexpected, with Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu citing Somaliland's right to self-determination. This decision has faced international backlash, including criticism from China, Turkey, and the African Union, while the US defended Israel, highlighting perceived double standards among its critics.

In a statement, Saar remarked, Somaliland was not created this past weekend. It has existed as a functioning state for more than 34 years. He described the backlash against Israel’s recognition as hypocritical.