Nasir Ali
Mogadishu: Tensions are mounting on the African continent following Somalia’s decision to snap all agreements with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in protest against the recognition of Somaliland as an independent country.
Although the recognition of Somaliland has been granted only by Israel so far, people in Somalia widely believe that the UAE is behind these geopolitical developments, which they say threaten Somalia’s survival and pose a serious challenge to regional security through Israel’s direct involvement.
Against this backdrop, the Somali Cabinet decided to cancel all agreements with the UAE, protesting its suspected role in facilitating Somaliland’s separation from mainland Somalia in support of Israel’s regional plans.
Israeli Recognition of Somaliland Seen as Security Threat
Israel recognized Somaliland in December last year (2025). This move was opposed by African nations, along with countries from the Muslim world, as it is viewed as a direct threat to regional security with potential long-term consequences.
Diplomatic Relations Strained
Diplomatic relations have also been strained between several countries and Israel, as well as the United States of America, since no other country has come forward to recognize Somaliland as an independent state.
UAE and Sudan’s RSF
Somali authorities believe that the UAE backs non-state actors and separatist elements in African nations, particularly citing the role of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the country’s civil war and alleged killings that have drawn worldwide condemnation. However, the UAE has categorically denied supporting the RSF.
Earlier, it was alleged that the UAE declined to sign a joint statement by Arab countries last year condemning Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, although it later released a joint statement with the African Union supporting regional concerns.
