UN Condemnation of Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland

In a significant response to Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, the majority of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) members condemned the decision during an emergency meeting held in New York City. Several representatives expressed concerns regarding the potential repercussions for Palestinians in Gaza. The United States stood out as the sole member among the 15-member council to refrain from condemning Israel’s actions, although it clarified that its stance on Somaliland remained unchanged.

Somalia’s Plea to the UNSC

Speaking at the UNSC gathering, Somalia’s UN ambassador, Abu Bakr Dahir Osman, called on member states to categorically oppose Israel’s “act of aggression.” Osman asserted that this recognition not only jeopardizes Somalia’s unity but also threatens stability across the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea. He voiced deep concern that Israel’s move might be a strategy to forcibly “relocate the Palestinian population from Gaza to northwestern Somalia,” denouncing it as an egregious violation of law and morality.

Reactions from the UNSC

The emergency session was prompted by Israel’s recent declaration as the first country to acknowledge the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent nation. As noted by Al Jazeera’s Gabriel Elizondo, all but one council member criticized Israel’s decision, while the U.S. offered a more supportive yet cautious stance.

US Deputy UN Ambassador Tammy Bruce articulated that while Israel possesses the right to establish diplomatic ties, the United States had no intention of changing its policy regarding Somaliland.

In contrast, Israel’s Deputy Ambassador to the UN, Jonathan Miller, emphasized that recognizing Somaliland was not an antagonistic act against Somalia and should be viewed as a chance for constructive engagement.

Concerns Over Regional Stability

Multiple nations conveyed apprehensions regarding the implications of Israel’s recognition for Palestinians during the UNSC meeting. Representing the Arab League, UN envoy Maged Abdelfattah Abdelaziz stated that the group opposes any initiatives stemming from this “illegitimate recognition” that could lead to the forced displacement of Palestinian individuals or the establishment of military bases in northern Somali ports.

Pakistan’s Deputy UN Ambassador, Muhammad Usman Iqbal Jadoon, echoed these sentiments, addressing the troubling nature of Israel’s actions in light of its past references to Somaliland as a possible destination for deported Palestinians. Additionally, both China and the UK voiced their disapproval of the recognition. China’s UN envoy, Sun Lei, stressed that supporting separatist movements for geopolitical interests is unacceptable and that every nation should respect Somalia’s territorial integrity.

Responses from Non-UNSC Members

Several non-UNSC members, including South Africa, also participated in the dialogue. South African envoy Mathu Joyini reaffirmed Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, aligning with international law and the principles of the African Union.

The Controversial Comparison

While defending Israel’s decision, US envoy Bruce drew parallels between the recognition of Somaliland and Palestine, which has been acknowledged by over 150 UN member states. She criticized the UNSC for not convening similar emergency meetings regarding Palestine, framing it as an instance of double standards.

However, Slovenia’s UN Ambassador Samuel Zbogar rejected this analogy, clarifying that “Palestine is not part of any state” and is classified as occupied territory. He stressed the difference between the two situations, reiterating that recognizing Somaliland contradicts the principles of the UN Charter.

Conclusion

The recognition of Somaliland by Israel has sparked significant debate and condemnation at the international level, particularly concerning its implications for Palestinian rights and regional stability. As discussions unfold, it remains crucial for global observers to monitor how this situation develops and affects ongoing tensions in the region.

• UNSC members broadly condemned Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, citing serious implications for Palestinians.
• The U.S. was the only council member not to condemn the action, asserting its unchanged policy.
• Concerns were raised about potential forced relocations of Palestinians to northern Somalia.
• Comparisons between the recognition of Somaliland and Palestine were met with varied responses among nations.