Thousands gathered in Somaliland's capital Hargeisa on Monday for a military parade and traditional dances, marking one year since Israel recognized the breakaway territory last December. Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland's independence since the region declared autonomy from Somalia in 1991.
President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi told the crowd: "Somaliland has met all the requirements of a responsible, peaceful, law-abiding and democratic state. The question Somaliland puts to the world is no longer whether we deserve recognition, but when."
Somaliland's leadership argues that its stability, relative democracy and location on the Gulf of Aden—near vital shipping routes and war-torn Yemen—make it a strategic military and commercial hub. They had hoped other partners, including the United States, the United Arab Emirates and Ethiopia, would follow Israel's lead, but recognition has not expanded.
Secession remains highly contentious. The African Union and many international partners oppose formal recognition, fearing it could encourage other separatist movements across the continent.
Israel's decision has also divided Somaliland's Muslim-majority population. Some embrace the new relationship, with Israeli flags appearing in homes and businesses. But others are deeply skeptical, especially as Israel continues its war in Gaza.
Local activists say dozens of people—including religious scholars and youth waving Palestinian flags—have been arrested during protests against the new ties.
Somaliland also does not fully control the territory it claims. Newly formed Puntland state in northeastern Somalia asserts authority over some eastern areas. Somaliland forces clashed with local clans there in 2023, shelling hospitals, schools, mosques and homes. Amnesty International said hundreds or thousands were killed or wounded, and about 200,000 people displaced.
Ahmed Ali Shire, a member of parliament in Puntland from the still-scarred city of Las Anod, warned: "Conflict will erupt again." He said Israel's involvement risks repeating the foreign intervention that fueled Somalia's civil war in the 1980s.
In Hargeisa, enthusiasm is strong but not unanimous. Dahir Omar Bile, 42, a resident, fears Israel's actions in Gaza will undermine Somaliland's bid for wider recognition: "Somaliland fought hard for independence, but I cannot trust [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu. He killed children the same age as my children."
Many also worry about reprisals. Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group has threatened to attack Somaliland if Israel establishes a planned military presence there. "The Houthi threats scare many people," Bile said.
