Somaliland FM Leaves Door Open to Israeli Military Presence After Historic Visit

Somaliland’s historic delegation visit to Israel is ending Thursday, led by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and senior officials including ministers and the army chief. Somaliland Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adam, a central figure in building ties with Israel, said in an interview with Roi Kais on Kan News that he sees the relationship as a breakthrough that could encourage more countries to recognize Somaliland, which sits at a strategic point in the Horn of Africa.

Speaking at Jerusalem’s King David Hotel, Adam said, “Now with the establishment of full diplomatic relations with Somaliland, through opening the embassy and by inviting the president as part of an official delegation from Somaliland, it will open the door for others to follow Israel. I am sure of it.” He said the most emotional moment was the reception by the Israeli president, foreign minister, prime minister and Knesset speaker when Somaliland’s anthem was played and its flag was raised, adding that he was close to tears and would never forget it.

Adam also addressed criticism from Arab and Muslim states that back Somalia, which condemned the visit and Somaliland’s embassy opening. He said, “There is no need to waste time and energy on a failed state like Somalia that does not control beyond the capital Mogadishu,” and claimed the rest of the country is controlled by the al-Shabaab terror group. “They are not in a position to criticize or say anything, they should deal with their own problems,” he said.

Asked whether the visit could lead to an Israeli military presence in Somaliland to help confront Houthi threats in the Red Sea region from Yemen, Adam did not rule it out. “The relationship between Israel and Somaliland is open. We can discuss anything we think is important for us,” he said, adding that both sides can cooperate and help each other in any area serving their mutual interest, whether economic or security-related. He ended by thanking Israelis: “We will forever be grateful for what you have done for us.”