Story perspectives

Israel Hosts First Somaliland Ambassador, Plays Anthem

5/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

An orchestra at Israel’s President’s Residence played Somaliland’s national anthem for the first time during the credential ceremony.
Dr. Mohamed Hagi presented his credentials to President Isaac Herzog, becoming Somaliland’s ambassador to Israel after Israel recognized Somaliland’s independence on December 26, 2025.
Minister Gideon Sa'ar hosted Hagi, pledged relations, noted the ceremony fell on Somaliland’s Independence Day, May 18, 1991, and that ambassadors from South Korea, the Vatican, Australia and Vietnam also presented credentials.

History

Historical Context

Kosovo proclaimed independence from Serbia on 17 February 2008, prompting Israel to monitor the case and repeatedly refuse recognition through 2009 and 2011. After the U.S.-brokered Kosovo-Serbia economic talks, Israel announced on 4 September 2020 that it recognized Kosovo, formalising ties on 1 February 2021 and opening an embassy in Jerusalem in March. Today more than 100 UN members recognise Kosovo.

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Story summary

An orchestra at Israel’s President’s Residence played Somaliland’s national anthem for the first time during the credential ceremony.
Dr. Mohamed Hagi presented his credentials to President Isaac Herzog, becoming Somaliland’s ambassador to Israel after Israel recognized Somaliland’s independence on December 26, 2025.
Minister Gideon Sa'ar hosted Hagi, pledged relations, noted the ceremony fell on Somaliland’s Independence Day, May 18, 1991, and that ambassadors from South Korea, the Vatican, Australia and Vietnam also presented credentials.

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