Türkiye has issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s decision to officially recognize the independence of the Somaliland region, labeling the move as a deliberate attempt to destabilize the Horn of Africa.
In a written statement, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Öncü Keçeli described the recognition as the latest example of the “unlawful actions” taken by the Netanyahu government.
“This step by Israel, which continues its expansionist policies and makes every effort to prevent the recognition of the State of Palestine, constitutes an open intervention in Somalia’s domestic affairs,” Keçeli said.
The statement emphasized that decisions regarding the future of the Somaliland region and the Federal Republic of Somalia must reflect the will of all Somali people, rather than external actors.
Reaffirming Ankara’s position, Keçeli added, “Türkiye, which attaches importance to peace and security in the Horn of Africa and decisively supports Somalia’s territorial integrity, will continue to stand by the Somali people.”
The diplomatic rebuke follows reports of Israel moving to formalize ties with the breakaway region, a move that Mogadishu views as a violation of its sovereignty.