On 26 December 2025, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign state. US officials have defended Israel’s right to recognise Somaliland, but the US itself hasn’t done so despite speculation that it might. Israel’s strategic calculationIsrael has framed its recognition of Somaliland primarily in terms of regional security and strategic stability. However, Israel’s recognition of Somaliland has reignited debate within US strategic and policy circles. Much of the US debate focuses on recognition itself, but this risks missing the more consequential issue: the precedent Somaliland could set.

Source: The Star February 02, 2026 17:09 UTC