Daijiworld Media Network - Cairo
Cairo, Jan 7: Egypt on Tuesday warned against remaining silent over Israel’s decision to recognise the breakaway Somaliland region, terming the move a “serious threat” to regional and international peace and security.
Addressing a virtual meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said unilateral actions aimed at imposing new political realities outside any recognised legal framework must not go unanswered.
He described Israel’s recognition of the so-called Somaliland region as a “flagrant violation” of Somalia’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and cautioned that it sets a dangerous precedent with far-reaching consequences.
The Egyptian foreign minister reiterated Cairo’s firm rejection of any attempts to link Israel’s move with alleged plans to forcibly displace Palestinians outside their homeland, calling such proposals “completely unacceptable”.
On December 26, Israel officially announced its recognition of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, becoming the only country globally to take such a step. The move triggered widespread criticism across the region, particularly from Arab nations, which termed it illegal and a threat to international peace and stability.
Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s “full support for the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia,” describing them as non-negotiable pillars for stability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.
“Israel’s recognition contributes to fuelling conflict and insecurity in the region,” he said, holding Tel Aviv fully responsible for the consequences of what he termed an illegitimate decision.
He further noted that Egypt had spearheaded intensive diplomatic efforts to build a unified international stance against the move, resulting in a joint statement issued in December by 23 countries and two international organisations rejecting Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.
In recent months, US and Israeli media reports have suggested discussions on relocating Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to the breakaway region in exchange for international recognition — claims that have sparked strong opposition across the Arab world.