Somaliland and Israel to open mutual embassies in Jerusalem and Hargeisa
Somaliland officials say the territory will open mutual embassies with Israel, with one in Jerusalem and another in Hargeisa. The move, announced via Al Jazeera by a Somaliland envoy, will reopen debate over the breakaway state's recognition.
According to a Somaliland envoy speaking to Al Jazeera, Somaliland and Israel have agreed to open mutual embassies. One will operate in Jerusalem and the other in Hargeisa.
Somaliland declared unilateral independence in 1991 and has sought international recognition ever since, although most international organisations, including the United Nations, do not recognise the territory as a state. The decision to open an embassy in Jerusalem brings the Palestinian question and Horn of Africa geopolitics back into focus.
Diplomatic responses from Egypt, Ethiopia and other regional governments will be closely watched. The economic implications will be read through the lens of trade corridors and Red Sea security.
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