United Nations: The United States strongly defended Israel’s controversial decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent nation, asserting that Israel enjoys the same diplomatic rights as any other sovereign state. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session on Monday, Deputy US Ambassador to the UN Tammy Bruce said criticism against Israel reflected “double standards,” especially when compared to global recognition moves regarding Palestine.
Bruce noted that earlier this year, several countries — including some sitting members of the Security Council — had “unilaterally” recognized a Palestinian state without triggering an emergency Council meeting. “Israel has the same right to conduct diplomatic relations as any other sovereign state,” she said, adding that outrage over Somaliland recognition appeared selective.
Israel’s announcement on Friday, confirming its recognition of Somaliland, has sparked wide international backlash. The African Union, Egypt, the European Union and several other nations reiterated that Somalia’s sovereignty must be respected. Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991, has long sought international legitimacy without success — until Israel’s move.
Despite the diplomatic storm, Bruce clarified that US President Donald Trump opposes the recognition and stressed that “there has been no change in American policy.”
Slovenia’s UN Ambassador Samuel Zbogar firmly rejected Washington’s comparison between Somaliland and Palestine, arguing that Palestine is recognized as an occupied territory by the International Court of Justice, while Somaliland remains part of a UN member state. “Recognizing Somaliland goes against the UN Charter,” he stated.
Somalia’s UN Ambassador Abukar Osman condemned Israel’s move as an “act of aggression” aimed at destabilizing and fragmenting Somalia. He urged the UN to reject the recognition unequivocally.
Several Security Council members reiterated their support for Somalia’s territorial unity. UK Ambassador James Kariuki reaffirmed backing for Somalia’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.
Israel, however, maintained that the decision was not hostile. Israeli representative Jonathan Miller said the recognition should be viewed as “an opportunity to strengthen stability” and does not rule out future dialogue with Somalia.
Somaliland, located in the Horn of Africa and strategically positioned across the Gulf of Aden from Yemen, has long emphasized its stability, governance structure, and strategic importance while seeking global recognition.