Israel-Somaliland Ties Deepen as Ambassador Presents Credentials

Another step in cementing diplomatic relations between Israel and Somaliland: Israel's ambassador to the country, Michael Lotem, presented his credentials last week to the president of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi. The ceremony, described as historic, was held at the presidential palace in the capital, Hargeisa, a few months after the opening of the Somaliland embassy in Jerusalem.

At the close of the ceremony, an additional event was held to mark the development of ties between the two countries, during which the cornerstone was laid for the new Israeli embassy planned to be built in Hargeisa. The move joins a series of diplomatic steps taken since official relations were established between the two countries.

The process began on December 26, 2025, when Israel and Somaliland recognized each other. Following the mutual recognition, a string of visits and diplomatic moves began, aimed at solidifying the relationship. In January 2026, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar made a historic visit to Somaliland, one of the first steps taken after the recognition.

Later, in June 2026, the president of Somaliland visited Israel. During his visit, the Somaliland embassy in Jerusalem was opened, and now, with the Israeli ambassador presenting his credentials and the laying of the cornerstone for the embassy in Hargeisa, the implementation of the understandings reached between the two sides continues.

Sa'ar addressed the development of the relationship and the completion of the process of appointing the Israeli ambassador, stating that “Israel is determined to advance and solidify its relations with Somaliland. The appointment of ambassadors, in accordance with the agreement reached at the time of the mutual recognition between the countries, is another important building block in strengthening the ties between us.”