Israel becomes the first country to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, signing an official declaration by the leaders of the two countries.

Israel has become the first country to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, more than three decades after it separated from Somalia. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar signed the official declaration, while the President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, signed for his country. Somaliland had a brief period of independence in 1960, being recognized then by Israel and 34 other countries, before uniting with Somalia.

Although it officially separated in 1991, Somaliland has not been recognized by other states, but has maintained relations with several important countries. Netanyahu emphasized the importance of economic and social collaboration with Somaliland and invited Abdullahi to visit Israel. This recognition comes in the context of previous negotiations between Somaliland and Israel regarding the relocation of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.