Somaliland opposition rejects Somalia PM’s claims on Israel recognition

Somaliland’s opposition parties, Kaah and KULMIYE, have rejected claims made by Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre regarding local opposition to Israel’s recognition of Somaliland. Barre previously suggested in an interview that Somaliland’s religious leaders, traditional elders, and political parties did not approve of the recognition.

Kaah leader Abdikarim Mohamed stated that Barre misunderstood internal political debates, asserting that Somaliland’s people and institutions share a fundamental position on the right to self-determination and statehood.

KULMIYE Secretary-General Faisal Abdirahman Madar reaffirmed the party’s support for Israel’s recognition, describing it as a non-negotiable decision made by the people of Somaliland. Madar urged the Federal Government of Somalia and neighboring countries to recognize Somaliland’s sovereignty. Israel formally recognized Somaliland as an independent state on December 26, 2025, marking the first time a United Nations member state has done so.