The government in Mogadishu has announced a decision to ban Israeli vessels from transiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, in what is seen as a direct response to Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and the appointment of an ambassador to the breakaway region.
Abdullah Warfa stated that the move aims to safeguard Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, warning that any foreign interference would face serious consequences, including restrictions on access to key maritime routes.
The escalation follows Israel’s implementation of its agreement with Somaliland to exchange ambassadors, after becoming the first country to formally recognize the region last year.
However, analysts question Somalia’s ability to enforce such a ban, citing its limited naval and air capabilities and lack of military assets to carry out the threat. Still, they note that the move carries significant diplomatic and political implications.
In this context, Rashid Abdi warned that such rhetoric could complicate Somalia’s relations with the United States, particularly if interpreted as alignment with the Houthis amid Red Sea tensions.
Somaliland is not internationally recognized as a sovereign state, despite declaring independence from Somalia in 1991. Under international law, it remains part of Somalia and does not hold a seat at the United Nations.
Meanwhile, Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro renewed calls for recognition, stating that the only viable path forward is the establishment of two neighboring states with peaceful relations.
In his annual address to parliament, Irro emphasized that Somaliland will continue its diplomatic campaign for full recognition, describing it as a firm commitment that could be realized in the near future.
It is worth noting that Somaliland has sought international recognition for over three decades without success, until Israel’s recognition in December 2025—a move that triggered widespread regional and international opposition.