Israel Recognizes Somaliland as “Moderate Muslim Democracy” in Bold Move

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated today that Israel has formally recognized Somaliland, describing the move as support for a “moderate, democratic Muslim country” seeking closer ties with Israel through the Abraham Accords.

In an exclusive interview at Mar-a-Lago, Netanyahu emphasized that Somaliland’s political system and leadership distinguish it from Somalia, which he characterized as unstable and rife with terrorism. “Somaliland has 6 million citizens, moderate Muslims; they want to join the Abraham Accords,” Netanyahu said. “They are democratic, they’ve held elections.”

He contrasted this with Somalia, stating: “The rest of Somalia has been a hodgepodge, with al-Shabaab terrorists and no real elections for decades.”

Netanyahu confirmed Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland, arguing that democratic governance and a commitment to peace with Israel justified the decision. “Why not support a democratic, moderate Muslim country that wants to join the Abraham Accords?” he asked. “I think everybody should do that. If we have to be first, then we’ll be first.”

The Israeli leader also noted the recognition aligns with Israel’s broader effort alongside President Donald Trump to expand the Abraham Accords beyond the Middle East to additional Muslim-majority countries. Netanyahu made the remarks during his final interview before departing for Somaliland.