MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia recalled its ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, after he attended an Israeli-hosted Avocado Conference in Nairobi.
The recall followed what reliable sources described as a breach of diplomatic guidelines after he was photographed with Israeli envoy Gideon Behar at the event’s conclusion.
Somalia’s Foreign Ministry opened an internal review, and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was briefed on what sources said was an ‘unauthorized and reckless’ decision.
This came two days after President Mohamud called Israel an enemy state in remarks delivered during Eid al-Adha.
He also accused Israel of seeking a military foothold in Somalia to attack other Muslim-majority countries in the region.
Abdulle’s attendance contradicted Somalia’s policy of avoiding relations with Israel due to its recognition of Somaliland, the breakaway region.
Reliable sources said Abdulle may have received compensation for attending under invitation, though the claims remain unverified.
This comes amid regional tensions after Muslim countries condemned Somaliland’s efforts to open diplomatic representation in Jerusalem.
Analyst Ali Osman said Abdulle’s presence surprised observers given Somalia’s firm opposition to Israeli ambitions in the East African nation.
Osman said Somali diplomats are expected to strictly follow national foreign policy guidelines issued by the federal government.
This also sparked internal debate, as Foreign Minister Abdisalam Ali was abroad during the controversy and is now returning to Mogadishu for consultations.
Sources said Abdulle’s future remains uncertain, with possible disciplinary action under review for alleged violations of foreign policy rules.
The recall points to Somalia’s sensitive foreign relations amid competing regional alliances and domestic political pressures shaping diplomatic decisions.