Somaliland announced plans to open an embassy in Jerusalem soon, marking its first embassy abroad after Israel recognized its independence in December 2025 [1, 2]. In reciprocal moves, Israel will establish its embassy or representation in Somaliland’s capital city, Hargeisa [1, 2].
Israel became the first country to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, breaking decades of diplomatic isolation for the self-declared republic [1, 2]. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has exercised de facto autonomy since then but had not received recognition by any UN member state until Israel’s move [1, 2].
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said the embassy openings represent "another significant step in strengthening relations with Somaliland" and that "we will work together to implement this decision soon" [1, 2]. Somaliland’s ambassador Mohamed Hagi, also a presidential adviser who helped broker the recognition and embassy agreements, called the developments a sign of "growing friendship, mutual respect, and strategic cooperation between our two peoples" [2].
Israel claims all of Jerusalem as its capital, although this is not widely recognized internationally, and East Jerusalem’s status remains disputed with Palestinians seeking it as the capital of a future state [1, 2]. The Somaliland embassy would become the eighth embassy in Jerusalem, joining those of the US, Guatemala, Kosovo, Honduras, Paraguay, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji [1, 2].
Somalia strongly rejects Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, calling it a violation of its sovereignty [1, 2]. The United Nations Security Council, African Union, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and European Union have condemned Israel's recognition [2].
In January 2026, Israeli Foreign Minister Saar visited Hargeisa to meet Somaliland officials prior to the embassy announcements [2]. On May 19, Somaliland’s ambassador publicly announced the plan for mutual embassies [1, 2]. The Somaliland embassy in Jerusalem is expected to open soon, with Israel preparing its representation in Hargeisa in tandem.
