Wednesday January 7, 2026
Mogadishu (HOL) — The African Union’s Peace and Security Council on Tuesday strongly condemned Israel’s unilateral recognition of Somaliland and called for the decision to be immediately revoked, warning it threatens Somalia’s sovereignty and risks destabilizing the Horn of Africa.
In a statement issued after its 1324th meeting, held Jan. 6 at ministerial level, the council rejected any action undermining the sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity and stability of the Federal Republic of Somalia. It urged all AU member states and international partners to reaffirm Somalia’s unity and to reject what it described as illegal acts that violate international law and African Union principles.
“Any attempt to alter borders by force, or through illegal means to undermine the unity and territorial integrity of an AU member state, contravenes the Constitutive Act and sets a dangerous precedent,” the statement said, warning of far-reaching consequences for peace, security and stability across the continent.
Member states and international partners said such actions could threaten peace in Africa, particularly in the Horn of Africa, undermine joint security initiatives and establish a precedent inconsistent with established international norms.
The council commended Somalia’s federal government for what it described as continued efforts in state-building, and emphasized that dialogue within Somalia remains the only acceptable path toward resolving political differences between the federal government and its member states.
It urged the African Union Commission, working closely with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the East African Community, to continue supporting and facilitating inclusive political dialogue aimed at peacefully addressing the country’s challenges.
The statement echoed earlier remarks by AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who on Dec. 26, 2025, rejected any initiative aimed at recognizing Somaliland as an independent entity. Youssouf said such moves run counter to the core principles of the African Union and the United Nations and risk setting a dangerous precedent that could undermine peace, stability and Africa’s long-term integration goals under Agenda 2063.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the central government but has not been recognized by the international community. Israel’s recognition has drawn strong opposition from Somalia, regional governments and multilateral bodies, intensifying diplomatic tensions and raising concerns about regional stability.
The AU said it would continue to engage international partners to ensure respect for Somalia’s internationally recognized borders, describing unity and territorial integrity as essential to lasting peace in Somalia and the wider region.