Somalia condemns Israel’s appointment of envoy to Somaliland

MOGADISHU, Somalia — The Federal Government of Somalia has issued a strong condemnation following Israel’s appointment of Michael Lotem as its first non-resident ambassador to Somaliland on Wednesday.

In a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs dated April 15, 2026, the government characterized the move as a direct assault on Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.

The statement emphasized that such actions violate international law, including the UN Charter and the African Union’s principles, which recognize Somalia as a single state within its internationally defined borders.

The ministry stated that any diplomatic engagement with the Somaliland region without the explicit authorization of the central government is illegal and carries no legal weight. Mogadishu warned that this decision could destabilize the region and undermine Somalia’s ongoing efforts in state-building and counter-terrorism.

The Somali government has called on Israel to rescind the appointment immediately and urged the international community—including the UN, Arab League, and European Union—to stand against any measures that threaten the unity of the Somali Republic or seek to legitimize secessionist movements.

GAROWE ONLINE