Beijing and London Defend Somali Sovereignty Amid Somaliland Recognition

The recent Israeli recognition of Somaliland on December 26 has sparked international controversy, drawing strong responses from Beijing and London while receiving backing from the United States. Both China and the United Kingdom condemned the move, emphasizing the importance of respecting Somali sovereignty and the territorial integrity of recognized states.

Israel’s decision to formally recognize Somaliland—a self-declared republic that broke away from Somalia in 1991—has reignited longstanding tensions over the Horn of Africa’s political landscape. The recognition was praised by the US, which argued that engagement with Somaliland could contribute to regional stability and economic development. This stance, however, sharply contrasts with the position of Somalia’s allies, including China and the UK, who view unilateral recognition as a threat to international norms.

Beijing and London stressed that Somaliland’s status should be resolved through dialogue with Somalia and the international community rather than unilateral diplomatic recognition. Officials from both countries warned that Israel’s move could set a dangerous precedent for separatist regions worldwide, potentially undermining established principles of sovereignty and non-interference.

The UN has also been drawn into the debate, with member states calling for calm and urging all parties to prioritize diplomatic solutions. Analysts note that the episode highlights the delicate balance of international relations in the Horn of Africa, where geopolitical, economic, and security interests intersect.

As tensions simmer, the world watches closely to see how Israel, the US, and other global powers navigate the fallout from this contentious recognition. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing strategic interests with respect for sovereign boundaries in a complex and often volatile region.