Israel formally accredits first Somaliland ambassador following recognition

TEL AVIV — Israel’s Foreign Ministry on Wednesday officially granted diplomatic accreditation to the first ambassador of Somaliland to Israel, marking a significant escalation in relations between the two entities.

The ministry confirmed that the appointment of Dr. Mohamed Omar Haaji Mohamud, also known as Mohamed Hagi, follows the formal establishment of diplomatic ties on Dec. 26, 2025. The move builds upon a framework of agreements reached during Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar’s visit to Somaliland last month.

Hagi, who serves as an adviser to Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, was recognized as a plenipotentiary ambassador following Israel’s landmark decision to recognize the breakaway region's independence. Israeli officials also announced intentions to appoint a reciprocal envoy to Somaliland in the near future to strengthen strategic and security cooperation.

As part of the burgeoning partnership, Israel’s international development agency, MASHAV, is currently hosting a specialized training program for Somaliland’s water sector officials. The initiative is designed to assist the region in infrastructure planning and professional capacity building.

The diplomatic surge comes amid reports from Israeli media that President Abdullahi, popularly known as Cirro, is scheduled to make an official state visit to Israel in late March. While the visit would be the first public appearance by a Somaliland head of state in the country, reports indicate that Cirro previously conducted discreet high-level discussions in Israel to facilitate the current recognition.

Somaliland declared unilateral independence from Somalia in 1991 but has struggled for decades to secure international standing. Israel’s decision to become the first nation to recognize the region in December 2025 formally has drawn fierce opposition from the federal government of Somalia. Authorities in Mogadishu have labeled the move a violation of their national sovereignty and have launched a diplomatic campaign to rally international opposition.

Despite the friction with Mogadishu, Hargeisa has signaled it will move forward with expanded cooperation with Israel in the fields of agricultural technology, water management, and Red Sea security.

GAROWE ONLINE