On 26th December 2025, the State of Israel made a singular diplomatic declaration: it became the first nation in the world to recognize Somaliland as an independent, sovereign state. The breakaway region in the Horn of Africa — which declared itself separate from Somalia in 1991 but has never been granted formal international status — was suddenly catapulted into geopolitical significance.

But beneath the language of “historic partnership” lies a far more troubling reality, one that jeopardizes international law, regional stability in Africa, and offers a worrying glimpse of how recognition can be wielded not as a tool for peace but as leverage for geopolitical ambition.

Indonesia’s response has been unequivocal. Jakarta has strongly rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, aligning with a broad coalition of Arab, Islamic, African, and global actors who see the move as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Indonesian diplomats have underscored that Somaliland remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and that any external attempt to unilaterally redefine borders is a disruption to regional stability and a violation of international law.

This position reflects a commitment to the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter — respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful resolution of disputes. It also resonates with core values widely held in the Global South: that power should not be exercised unilaterally by states acting in their own interest,........

© Middle East Monitor