LAS ANOD, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said Israel’s recognition of Somaliland is not accepted domestically or internationally, and reaffirmed that Somalia’s unity is “non-negotiable” and a “red line.”
Speaking in Las Anod, a town seized by unionist fighters from Somaliland in 2023, President Mohamud urged Somaliland leaders to engage in dialogue “at all levels” and said he is ready to compromise on anything except unity.
“Come and lead us,” he told Somaliland officials. “All Somalis belong to one country — Somalia — which is internationally recognized. Don’t waste time trying to create a new one. That future can only be achieved through unity, dialogue at all levels, and compromise.”
Mohamud also declared that the Northeastern State, whose leader was inaugurated on Saturday, is a full member of Somalia’s federal member states. He called on Northeastern State leaders and Somaliland to release prisoners of war they are holding from each other.
Israel recognized Somaliland on December 26, sparking celebrations in Hargeisa. Israel defended the decision, saying it alone determines whom it recognizes. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar visited Hargeisa earlier this month.
The Las Anod event drew ambassadors from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Sudan, and Djibouti, as well as a ministerial-level delegation from Djibouti, signaling support for the federal government and the new regional administration.
Traditional leaders from across Somalia attended, but regional leaders from Puntland and Jubaland who have differences with the federal government did not attend, while leaders from Southwest and Hirshabelle states were also absent, despite close working relations with Mogadishu.
The creation of the Northeastern State represents a direct challenge to Somaliland’s claims over parts of northern Somalia. Mohamud reiterated that unity, dialogue, and compromise are essential to building a future where historical grievances and conflicts are not repeated.
“We have a shared history, culture, and future,” he said. “We can only secure peace and development by remaining united and engaging in honest dialogue at every level.”
Somali President’s remarks come amid rising tensions between Somalia and Somaliland, with the breakaway region officials viewing his visit to Las Anod as a challenge to their territorial claims and accusing Turkey of using military helicopters to deploy troops to the region.
