Over 20 Muslim-Majority States Condemn Israeli Visit to Somalia’s Somaliland Region

The Foreign Ministers of 24 countries, including Jordan, Egypt, Algeria, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Iran, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Yemen, and members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), have strongly condemned Israel’s recent visit to Somalia’s Somaliland region.

The ministers issued a joint statement in response to an Israeli official’s visit to Somaliland on January 6, 2026, calling it “illegal” and a “clear violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.” The statement underlined that such actions undermine established international norms and contravene the United Nations Charter.

The statement reaffirmed the collective support of the countries for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. It also emphasized that encouraging secessionist movements is unacceptable and risks escalating tensions in an already fragile region.

The ministers stressed that respect for international law, non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states, and adherence to diplomatic norms are essential for both regional and international stability. They commended Somalia for its commitment to peaceful international engagement, constructive diplomacy, and adherence to international law.

Furthermore, the joint statement expressed full support for Somalia’s ongoing diplomatic and legal measures to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The ministers called on Israel to fully respect Somalia’s national unity and immediately revoke its recognition of Somaliland.

This statement follows an earlier declaration on December 27, 2025, in which the ministers rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.