Mogadishu (Kaab TV) — The African Union Peace and Security Council on Tuesday denounced Israel’s unilateral recognition of Somaliland, calling for the move to be reversed immediately and warning that it undermines Somalia’s sovereignty and could destabilize the Horn of Africa.
In a communiqué released after its 1324th ministerial-level meeting on Jan. 6, the council reaffirmed its rejection of any action that threatens the sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity and stability of the Federal Republic of Somalia. It urged all African Union member states and international partners to reaffirm Somalia’s unity and to oppose what it described as unlawful actions that violate international law and AU principles.
The council also called on AU members to support efforts by relevant United Nations bodies to safeguard Somalia’s territorial integrity, including any collective measures taken at the U.N. General Assembly.
“Any attempt to alter borders by force or through illegal means to undermine the unity and territorial integrity of an AU member state violates the Constitutive Act and sets a dangerous precedent,” the statement said, cautioning that such actions could have serious consequences for peace, security and stability across Africa.
Member states and international partners warned that recognizing Somaliland could threaten peace on the continent—particularly in the Horn of Africa—undermine regional security cooperation and erode established international norms.
The council praised Somalia’s federal government for its continued state-building efforts and stressed that dialogue within Somalia remains the only acceptable means of resolving political differences between the federal government and its member states.
It further urged the African Union Commission, in close coordination with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the East African Community (EAC), to continue supporting inclusive political dialogue to address Somalia’s challenges peacefully.
The statement echoed earlier comments by AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who on Dec. 26, 2025, rejected any initiative to recognize Somaliland as an independent state. Youssouf said such moves contradict the fundamental principles of both the African Union and the United Nations and risk setting a precedent that could undermine peace, stability and Africa’s long-term integration goals under Agenda 2063.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the central government, but it has not received international recognition. Israel’s decision has drawn strong opposition from Somalia, regional governments and multilateral institutions, heightening diplomatic tensions and raising concerns over regional stability.
The African Union said it will continue engaging international partners to ensure respect for Somalia’s internationally recognized borders, emphasizing that unity and territorial integrity are essential to lasting peace in Somalia and the wider region.