Israeli president meets Somaliland leader in Davos amid recognition controversy

Israeli President Isaac Herzog met with the leader of Somalia’s breakaway Somaliland region on Thursday on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. In a post on X, Herzog stated he was “pleased” to meet Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and welcomed the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two sides, expressing hope for expanded bilateral cooperation.

Background of Controversial Recognition

On December 26, Israel became the first and only country to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, a move that drew sharp criticism across the Horn of Africa and the Arab world. Somalia immediately rejected the decision, reaffirming its “firm and non-negotiable” commitment to its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Somaliland has functioned as a de facto independent entity since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not gained broad international recognition.

Regional and Diplomatic Implications

Israel’s recognition of Somaliland is viewed as a strategic maneuver to gain a diplomatic and potentially security foothold in the Horn of Africa, a region of growing geopolitical importance near key maritime routes. The move further complicates Somalia’s fragile statehood and could incentivize other secessionist movements while alienating Mogadishu and its allies. The Davos meeting signals Israel’s intent to deepen engagement with Somaliland despite regional opposition.

Broader Context of Israel’s Foreign Policy

Under the current government, Israel has pursued closer ties with nations and entities on the periphery of the Arab and Muslim world, often leveraging technology, security cooperation, and diplomatic recognition as tools of influence. Engagement with Somaliland aligns with this pattern, though it risks escalating tensions in an already volatile region and may provoke counteractions from Somalia and its partners, including Turkey and several Arab states.