Somalis rally against Israel’s world-first recognition of Somaliland

• Large protest in Mogadishu denounces what demonstrators call ‘Israel’ aggression and threats to Somalia’s territorial unity.
• Clan elders warn recognition of “Somaliland” violates Somalia’s sovereignty and international law.

A large public protest took place in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Monday, condemning what demonstrators described as “‘Israel’ aggression” and attempts to undermine the unity and sovereignty of Somali territory.

The rally was held at the Unknown Soldier Monument and brought together clan elders, tribal sheikhs, activists, and crowds of citizens, according to the Somali News Agency.

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Participants raised slogans affirming that “Somaliland” is an inseparable part of the Federal Republic of Somalia and rejected any foreign interference they said threatens the country’s territorial integrity.

Clan elders reject recognition claims

Clan elders said any recognition of the so-called “Somaliland” amounts to a blatant violation of Somali sovereignty and a breach of international law. In statements carried by the Somali News Agency, they stressed their readiness to confront any attempts to divide the country or undermine its national and religious principles.

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Demonstrators also issued a closing statement urging the federal government, political forces, and Somali society to unite in the face of what they described as “brutal aggression”.

They further called on the international community to respect Somalia’s territorial unity and refrain from actions that could destabilize the region.

Wider protests and political context

The Mogadishu demonstration comes amid ongoing protests in several Somali regions against what Somalis describe as ‘Israel’ efforts to erode the country’s sovereignty.

‘Israel’ announced on December 26, 2025, what it called official recognition of “Somaliland” as an independent state, a move that has been widely rejected across the region. The Arab League described the step as illegal and warned it poses a threat to regional and international peace and security, accusing Tel Aviv of pursuing unacceptable political, security, and economic agendas, according to Somali officials and regional organizations.

“Somaliland”, which declared separation from Somalia in 1991, lacks international recognition and operates as a self-administered entity. Somalia’s federal government continues to reject any recognition of the region as an independent state, insisting it remains an integral part of the Somali Republic and warning that any direct dealings with it constitute an assault on national unity and sovereignty.