How to Understand UN Security Council’s Stance on Somaliland

A High-Stakes Meeting at the UN

The halls of the United Nations were filled with tension this week. On Monday, December 29, 2025, the UN Security Council held an emergency meeting. The meeting was called to discuss a very controversial move by Israel. Just days ago, Israel became the first UN member to recognize Somaliland as a country.

This decision has caused a massive wave of anger across the world. During the meeting, most council members spoke out against the move. They believe that Somaliland is legally a part of Somalia. The debate showed a deep divide between Israel and the international community.

The Voices of the “A3+” Group

A very strong message came from a group known as the A3+. This group includes the African members of the council: Algeria, Sierra Leone, and Somalia. Guyana also joined them in their stern statement. Together, they “strongly condemned” Israel’s action. They called it a “flagrant assault” on the unity of Somalia.

The group argued that no outside country has the right to change a nation’s borders. They believe that Israel’s move is “null and void” under international law. Their joint statement was a powerful cry for the world to respect the rules of the UN.

Violating the UN Charter

Many speakers at the meeting focused on the UN Charter. This is a big book of rules that all countries must follow. The Charter says that the “sovereignty and territorial integrity” of a state must be respected. Council members argued that Israel broke these rules by picking a side in a local fight.

They warned that this move could lead to more “fragmentation” of countries in Africa. If one region can just leave a country, others might try to do the same. This fear of a “domino effect” is why so many nations are worried. They want to keep the borders exactly as they are.

Concerns Over Forced Relocation

There was also a very serious and scary topic brought up during the talks. Some members, including the A3+, mentioned the people of Gaza. They rejected any plan to “forcibly relocate” Palestinians to other lands. Specifically, they worry that Israel might try to move people from Gaza to Somaliland.

They called this idea “morally reprehensible” and a “red line.” Somalia’s delegate was very firm on this point. He said that the land of Somalia should not be used as a “bargaining chip.” This added a new layer of worry to the already heated debate.

The Houthi Threat and Red Sea Security

Israel has a very different view of the situation. They say their move is about making the Red Sea safer. For months, the Iran-backed Houthis have been attacking ships in the area. Israel believes that a strong partner in Somaliland can help stop these attacks. They want to work with Somaliland on “counter-terrorism” and sea security.

However, Pakistan’s speaker at the UN disagreed. He said that Israel is “exporting destabilizing conduct” to the Horn of Africa. He believes that Israel is just looking for a place to build a new military base. This disagreement shows how complex the security of the sea has become.

Impact on the Fight Against Al-Shabaab

Another big worry is the fight against Al-Shabaab. This is a dangerous terrorist group that operates in Somalia. The UN has worked for years to help Somalia become more stable. Some council members, like the delegate from Greece, said this work is now at risk. They believe that supporting “secessionist entities” makes the central government weaker.

If Somalia is divided, it might be harder to fight the terrorists. They called Israel’s move “profoundly irresponsible” for this very reason. They want everyone to focus on one united Somalia to keep the peace.

The Stance of the United States

The United States was in a very unique and lonely position during the meeting. While most countries condemned Israel, the US offered a different view. The US delegate defended Israel’s right to make its own choices. They even compared the recognition of Somaliland to the recognition of a Palestinian state.

This comparison was quickly rejected by other members, like Slovenia. They argued that Palestine is “occupied territory,” while Somaliland is part of a UN member state. Despite the heat, the US remains a close ally of Israel. This “lone support” shows how isolated the two countries are on this specific issue.

Regional Backlash in the Middle East

The anger is not just inside the UN building. Many countries in the Middle East have also issued “sharp divides” on the topic. Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia all rejected Israel’s move. Turkey also called it an “unlawful step” that creates more global instability. These countries are worried about their own borders and regional peace.

They believe that any change in the Horn of Africa should come through “meaningful dialogue.” The Arab League also sent a message of support to Somalia. This shows that the backlash is growing into a massive international front.

Celebrating in Hargeisa

While the UN was arguing, the streets of Hargeisa were filled with joy. Somaliland’s capital saw thousands of people celebrating the news. They projected the Israeli flag onto the National Museum to say thank you. For them, this is a “long-awaited breakthrough” for their legitimacy.

They have been waiting for 34 years to be recognized by the world. Their leader, President Cirro, said the move is “not directed against any state.” He believes it will bring more trade and technology to his people. This “joy on the ground” is a stark contrast to the “anger in New York.”

A Growing Global Discord Somaliland

In conclusion, the UN Security Council meeting has highlighted a massive global problem. Most countries see Israel’s move as a “flagrant violation” of international law. They worry about the future of Somalia and the safety of the Red Sea. Meanwhile, Israel and Somaliland see a new path for “mutual prosperity.” Somaliland

With the US standing alone in support, the divide is wider than ever. As we move into 2026, this “seismic shift” will likely cause more debates. The world is waiting to see if this move brings peace or more conflict. One thing is certain: the rules of the world are being tested like never before. Somaliland

Read More Articles Click Here. Read Previous Articles Click Here.