What is the story about?
Somalia has asked Israel to reverse its recent decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent nation, labeling the move as an unacceptable act of aggression.
In an interview with Al Jazeera today, Somalia's state minister for foreign affairs, Ali Omar, stated that his government views the recognition as direct interference in the country's internal matters. He stressed that Mogadishu would use every diplomatic channel available to push back against what he called "state aggression." The response comes on the heels of Israel's announcement on Friday, when it became the first country anywhere to formally acknowledge Somaliland's independence. The decision quickly drew criticism from governments in Africa and the Arab world.
Here is what you need to know
Somaliland declared its independence from Somalia in 1991 after years of bitter civil war. Since then, it has built its own government, complete with a separate currency, national flag, and functioning parliament.Still, no United Nations member state has ever granted it official recognition, and disputes continue over parts of its eastern regions. Omar emphasized the unity of Somalis on this issue. "This will never be acceptable or tolerable to our government and people who are united in defending our territorial integrity," he said.
Read more: Where Is Somaliland And Why Did Israel Recognize It As Independent Country?
Somaliland's president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi has defended Israel's decision. He is of the view that Jerusalem's decision is not directed against any other nation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Abdullahi to Israel, which Abdullahi has accepted.
The Israeli PM has also said that he'll raise the issue of Somaliland when he meets with US President Donald Trump. As of now, it is not clear how Trump would respond. During a conversation with The New York Post, Trump said that he will not follow Israel's decision.
