HARGEISA (SLpost)- Reports have emerged indicating that the Federal Government of Somalia has dispatched multiple delegations to Israel in recent months, in what appears to be a quiet effort to explore the possibility of establishing new diplomatic ties.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the delegations—comprising senior ministers and diplomats—reportedly traveled to Tel Aviv on at least three occasions. During these visits, they are said to have held discussions with Israeli officials regarding potential cooperation and normalization of relations.
While no official confirmation has been issued by either government, insiders suggest that Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration is seeking to reassess Somalia’s foreign policy posture, particularly in relation to Israel.
Some reports claim that Somali representatives proposed conditions tied to Israel’s regional engagements, including its relations with Somaliland. However, other sources indicate that Israel has not accepted such conditions, though it remains open to limited or undeclared forms of engagement with Mogadishu.
The developments have sparked debate within Somalia, as the country has historically maintained a position critical of Israel. Observers note that any shift toward normalization could signal a significant realignment in Somalia’s diplomatic strategy.
Meanwhile, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, President of Somaliland, recently described Israel as a “reliable partner” during a constitutional address, a statement interpreted by some analysts as a reflection of ongoing or potential ties.
As of now, the full details of the reported engagements remain unclear, and both governments have yet to publicly clarify their positions.
In December 2025, Israel became the first UN member state to officially recognize Somaliland as an independent country. Since then, cooperation has expanded in areas like security, water management, and development training.
Recognition of Somaliland by Tel Aviv significantly changed regional geopolitics and increased speculation about wider diplomatic shifts.
Israeli officials have visited Somaliland and explored security cooperation, including potential strategic facilities. A Somaliland ambassador was formally accepted in Israel in February 2026.
Report by Somalilandpost Staff writer
