LAS ANOD, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Saturday rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, calling it invalid internationally and domestically, and said Somalia’s unity is “non-negotiable” and a “red line.”
Mohamud was speaking at the inauguration of Northeastern State President Abdulkadir Ahmed Aw-Cali, known as Firdhiye, in Las Anod, a town taken from Somaliland administration forces by unionist fighters in 2023.
“Come and lead us,” Mohamud said, addressing Somaliland officials. “All Somalis belong to one internationally recognized country. Attempts to create a new state are a waste of time.”
He called for dialogue at all levels and urged both Somaliland and Northeastern State leaders to release prisoners of war, stressing that compromise is possible on everything except unity.
Israel recognized Somaliland on December 26, prompting celebrations in Hargeisa. Earlier this month, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar visited Hargeisa, defending Israel’s decision to independently determine recognition.
