Pan-Islamic bloc stresses firm support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty

By Mohammad Sio

ISTANBUL (AA) – The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Saturday reaffirmed its firm support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity, denouncing Israel’s recognition of the breakaway Somaliland region as “a dangerous violation” of international law.

The stance was voiced during the OIC’s 22nd extraordinary session of the Council of Foreign Ministers, held at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to discuss developments in Somalia following last month’s Israeli recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.

OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha said the meeting was convened at a “very delicate and sensitive time” to address serious developments affecting Somalia’s sovereignty, describing Israel’s move as “a dangerous precedent” that constitutes a flagrant violation of international law and a direct threat to regional security and stability.

Taha said the ministerial session followed an extraordinary meeting of the OIC Executive Committee with open membership at the level of permanent representatives, held on Jan. 1, 2025, reflecting the depth of shared concern among member states.

The discussions underscored the need for “a unified, clear and firm Islamic position” backing Somalia, grounded in the OIC Charter, international law and relevant UN resolutions.

Israel announced on Dec. 26 that it had officially recognized Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, becoming the only country to do so. The move drew sharp criticism across the region, describing the recognition as illegal and a threat to international peace and security.

Somaliland has operated as a de facto self-governing entity since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, but it has not received international recognition as a sovereign state.