AU rejects Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as independent state

The African Union Commission has rejected any recognition of Somaliland and reaffirms the AU’s unwavering commitment to the unity and sovereignty of Somalia.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, made this known in a statement issued on Saturday, December 27, 2025.

Youssouf reaffirmed the longstanding and consistent position of the AU, grounded in the principles enshrined in the Constitutive Act of the African Union, particularly the respect for the intangibility of borders inherited at independence, as affirmed by the 1964 decision of the Organization of African Unity.

He also condemned any initiative or action aimed at recognising Somaliland as an independent entity, recalling that Somaliland remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

Israel becomes first country to recognise Somaliland as independent state

“Any attempt to undermine the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Somalia runs counter to the fundamental principles of the African Union and risks setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent,” Youssouf stated.

The chairperson reiterated the African Union’s unwavering commitment to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Somalia, “as well as its full support for the efforts of the Somali authorities to consolidate peace, strengthen State institutions, and advance inclusive governance.”

The Star