12 Muslim Nations Condemn Israel’s Somaliland Envoy Appointment

Overview

• Foreign ministers from 12 Muslim-majority countries issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s decision to name a diplomatic representative to Somaliland.
• Israel appointed veteran diplomat Michael Lotem as a non-resident ambassador to the self-declared region, according to its Foreign Ministry.
• Somalia’s government called the appointment a direct violation of its sovereignty and urged Israel to reverse the decision.
• The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation also denounced the move and voiced full support for Somalia’s internationally recognized government.
• The ministers warned the step sets a dangerous precedent for the Horn of Africa, while background context notes Israel recognized Somaliland last year and most countries still treat it as part of Somalia.