MOGADISHU – The Somali Minister of Information, Daud Aweis, has accused Israel of pursuing a hidden agenda aimed at destabilizing Somalia’s unity and sovereignty. This accusation follows Israel’s recognition of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland.
Minister Aweis, speaking from Mogadishu, asserted that the Federal Government of Somalia categorically rejects this recognition, viewing it as an attempt to impose a new political reality that serves external interests at the expense of Somali territorial integrity. He warned that this move represents a deliberate intervention designed to destabilize both Somalia and the wider region.
The Somali government’s strong stance comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally recognized Somaliland as an independent state. This decision, formalized with the signature of Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, has drawn widespread condemnation from Arab and African nations.
Israel has justified its decision as part of expanding the Abraham Accords, announcing intentions to establish diplomatic relations and foster economic and security cooperation with Somaliland. However, Mogadishu views this as a political cover for undeclared objectives and a blatant interference in Somalia’s sovereign affairs.
‘Irresponsible Declarations’
Minister Aweis described such declarations as “irresponsible,” revealing a clandestine agenda to undermine Somalia’s unity and weaken its efforts to achieve peace and stability. He emphasized that Somalia will not accept any infringement upon its sovereignty.
The Somali government, according to Aweis, will pursue diplomatic channels to prevent the implementation of this decision, warning that its repercussions could extend to regional security and encourage terrorist groups to exploit the situation. He highlighted Somalia’s ongoing battle against armed groups, notably the al-Shabaab movement linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, stating that any action that weakens the central government benefits these organizations.
Aweis cautioned that Israeli recognition could pave the way for proxy conflicts within Somalia, noting the presence of armed factions in the region, including the Houthis in Yemen, which amplifies the sensitivity of any sudden security shifts.
‘Regional Instability’
He stressed that destabilizing Somalia would directly impact the security of the Horn of Africa, the Gulf of Aden, and the Red Sea, underscoring the significant regional implications of the current situation.
