Somaliland's Growing Ties with Israel: A New Chapter in Diplomacy

Somaliland, a self-declared independent region that has operated autonomously from Somalia since 1991, has recently gained international attention following Israel's recognition of its sovereignty in December 2022. Edna Adan Ismail, a prominent figure in Somaliland's political and social landscape, expressed her enthusiasm for this development, stating, “I’m so glad that we can openly say the word, Israel.” Somaliland's President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi has accepted an invitation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit Israel and sign a trade agreement, although no date has been set. This recognition has sparked criticism from Somalia, China, Turkey, Egypt, and the African Union, as the Somali government still considers Somaliland part of its territory.

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Somaliland gained independence from British rule on June 26, 1960, just days before Somalia achieved its own independence. The two regions briefly united, but this union was marred by violence, particularly under the dictatorship of Siad Barre, who was responsible for the deaths of over 200,000 people, primarily from the Isaaq clan, to which Edna belongs. Edna noted that Israel was the only nation to condemn the atrocities committed during this period. Despite lacking international recognition, Somaliland has maintained a stable democratic governance structure and a population of over 6 million.

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The relationship between Israel and Somaliland has been bolstered by humanitarian initiatives, particularly in healthcare. Dr. Adam Lee Goldstein, a director of trauma surgery in Israel, has collaborated with Edna at her hospital, which has delivered over 30,000 babies since its opening in 2002. The Israeli humanitarian organization Save a Child’s Heart (SACH) has also been involved, treating children from Somaliland with heart conditions. This collaboration began in 2004 and has formalized over the years, with SACH treating 41 children from Somaliland in Israel.

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Despite the positive developments, the recognition of Somaliland by Israel has faced backlash. Somalia's government has condemned the move, asserting that it undermines its territorial integrity. Critics argue that Somaliland's recognition could exacerbate tensions in the region, as it challenges the long-standing claims of Somalia over the territory.

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During his visit to Somaliland, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar emphasized that the establishment of diplomatic relations is not aimed against any other nation. Edna Adan Ismail has articulated the strategic importance of the relationship, stating, “We depend on each other for our mutual survival.” She also highlighted the cultural and religious respect that characterizes Somaliland's approach to its relationships, asserting that “we’re not fundamentalists.”

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• “The recognition and establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries are not directed against anyone.” — Gideon Sa’ar, Israeli Foreign Minister

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• “The fact that we are alive and breathing, and we did not all get exterminated, is too much for them.” — Edna Adan Ismail, on Somaliland's resilience against Somalia

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• “If it can be done on a former killing ground, it can be done anywhere.” — Dr. Adam Lee Goldstein, Director of Trauma Surgery

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Edna Adan Ismail remains a pivotal figure in Somaliland's ongoing development, advocating for women's rights and healthcare improvements. Her efforts against female genital mutilation (FGM) and her commitment to education reflect Somaliland's broader aspirations for recognition and stability. As Somaliland continues to strengthen its ties with Israel, the implications of this relationship will be closely monitored by regional and international observers.

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