The United States has defended Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland during a United Nations Security Council meeting, drawing sharp reactions from several member states.
An American envoy compared Israel’s recognition of Somaliland to international acknowledgements of Palestinian statehood, accusing some Security Council members of applying double standards.
The remarks came after an emergency meeting was convened following Israel’s announcement recognising the breakaway Somali territory. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but is not internationally recognised as a sovereign state.
The US representative argued that recognition decisions are sovereign political acts and said criticism directed at Israel ignored similar precedents elsewhere in international diplomacy.
Several Security Council members rejected the comparison and reiterated their support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, warning that recognition of Somaliland could destabilise the Horn of Africa.
The debate highlighted divisions within the council over self determination, sovereignty and recognition of breakaway regions.
Israel has said its decision was based on strategic and diplomatic considerations. Somalia has strongly opposed the move, calling it a violation of its sovereignty.
No resolution was adopted during the meeting.