IGAD rejects Israeli recognition of Somaliland as a State

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has issued a definitive statement reinforcing Mogadishu’s status as a sovereign member state within the regional bloc. The declaration emphasizes that Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity remain fully protected under established international legal frameworks.

IGAD’s communiqué explicitly stated that any unilateral recognition attempts directly contravene foundational international agreements, including the United Nations Charter, the African Union Constitutive Act, and the organization’s own establishment treaty. The regional body called upon all international partners and stakeholders to uphold these legal standards while promoting diplomatic engagement that advances regional peace and stability.

The Secretariat further expressed unwavering solidarity with both the Somali government and its citizens, reiterating its dedication to inclusive political processes and enhanced regional cooperation. This commitment aims to foster sustainable peace and prosperity throughout Somalia and the broader IGAD region.

This development follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement on social media platform X regarding a diplomatic agreement signed between Israel’s Foreign Ministry and Somaliland leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah. The arrangement, reportedly facilitated through former US President Donald Trump’s initiative, has sparked renewed attention to regional sovereignty issues.