The move by Israel to appoint a diplomatic envoy to Somaliland has drawn strong condemnation from the African Union, which says it violates Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Last Wednesday, Israel announced Michael Lotem as its first ambassador to Somaliland, months after formally recognising the self-declared region. Lotem previously served as Israel’s ambassador to Kenya.
The development marks a deepening diplomatic relationship between Israel and Somaliland, a step the African Union says disregards Somalia’s unity and could heighten tensions in the Horn of Africa.
In a statement on Sunday, the AU Commission expressed “deep concern” and strongly condemned Israel’s decision to establish formal diplomatic representation in the territory.
It reaffirmed its “unwavering” support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, stressing that Somaliland cannot be recognised as an independent state under the African Union’s Constitutive Act and international law.
Citing the African Union Peace and Security Council communiqué of 6 January 2026, the Commission warned that any unilateral recognition of Somaliland is “null and void” and could undermine regional stability.
The AU further reiterated its commitment to supporting Somalia’s peace process, governance, and national cohesion.
Israel became the first country to recognise Somaliland in December last year, ending more than three decades of diplomatic isolation for the region. While Somaliland authorities welcomed the move as a major breakthrough, it has continued to draw criticism from African and Arab leaders who insist it undermines Somalia’s sovereignty.
