African Union opposes Israel’s diplomatic envoy to so-called “Somaliland”

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - The African Union (AU) has strongly criticised reports that Israel plans to appoint a diplomatic envoy to what it called “Somaliland”.

In an statement, the AU Commission said it expresses “deep concern and strongly condemns reports of Israel’s decision to appoint a diplomatic envoy to the so-called “Somaliland”.

The AU reaffirmed its support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. It said this position is based on the both African Union’s founding rules and international law.

The statement referred to a decision made by the AU Peace and Security Council on 6 January 2026. At that meeting, the Council warned that any country taking unilateral steps to recognise Somaliland would be violating against AU policy.

The Commission emphasised that Israeli actions could harm peace and stability in the region. It said recognising Somaliland without agreement could increase tensions and could adversely affect efforts to maintain the unity in Somalia.

The AU repeated its commitment to supporting Somalia in building and sustaining peace, improving governance and strengthening national unity.

Somaliland Administration unilaterally declared independence from Somalia in 1991, but it has not been recognised as a separate country by the African Union or the United Nations.

“The Commission reaffirms the African Union’s unwavering respect for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Somalia, in accordance with the Constitutive Act of the African Union and international law. 

"The Union does not recognise Somaliland as an independent state,” reads the AU statement.

The African Union called on all countries to respect its position and avoid actions that could affect stability in the Horn of Africa.

-0- PANA RA 19April2026.