Saudi Arabia and OIC Stand Firm Against Israel’s Somaliland Recognition at Emergency Meeting
Riyadh reaffirms support for Somalia’s territorial integrity as Organisation of Islamic Cooperation condemns Israel’s landmark diplomatic move
Saudi Arabia has reiterated its categorical rejection of Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and reaffirmed its full support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, underscoring a broad Arab and Islamic diplomatic consensus.
At an extraordinary meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Jeddah, foreign ministers issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s decision to recognise the breakaway region as an independent state, describing the move as a violation of international law and a threat to peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
The OIC communique emphasised solidarity with Mogadishu and called on all parties to uphold the principles of the United Nations Charter and respect established borders.
Saudi Arabia’s delegation stressed that unilateral steps undermining recognised sovereign states set a dangerous precedent, reaffirming the kingdom’s commitment to Somalia’s legitimate federal institutions and regional security.
The emergency session, convened in response to escalating tensions after Israel’s December recognition and the subsequent visit by the Israeli foreign minister to Hargeisa, reflected widespread concern among member states about the potential for further destabilisation.
Representatives from multiple OIC member countries joined Riyadh in urging diplomatic engagement to resolve internal disputes within Somalia, rejecting any attempt to impose parallel entities outside the agreed constitutional framework.
Saudi Arabia’s position aligns with a broader international pushback to Israel’s diplomatic initiative, with regional powers affirming that respect for territorial integrity is essential for sustaining stability in Africa’s strategic corridor and beyond.