The Israeli ambassador to Somaliland, Mr. Michael Lotem, stated that the diplomatic ties between Israel and Somaliland are rapidly progressing, particularly in the areas of security, energy, infrastructure, technology, and trade. In an interview with Israeli media N12, Lotem expressed that Somaliland has shown a strong willingness to deepen cooperation with the Israeli government. He stated, “They are eager to strengthen cooperation, especially in the fields of energy, infrastructure, technology, industry, and telecommunications.” Lotem also mentioned that while security talks are an important aspect of the relationship between the two countries, there is also a broader political and trade cooperation. Lotem, who has previously served as the Israeli ambassador to Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, and Seychelles, was recently appointed as the non-resident ambassador to Somaliland. He revealed that the ties between Somaliland and Israel are part of a larger plan to increase Israel’s influence in the African continent, specifically with predominantly Muslim countries. He stated, “In recent years, Israel has made significant diplomatic efforts to strengthen its presence in Africa.” Lotem also highlighted the abundant natural resources in Somaliland, including fuel, gas, gold, metal, and coal, which could create employment opportunities. A recent report by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) stated that the relationship between Israel and Somaliland will have a major impact and will aid Israel in its fight against the Houthis in Yemen, as Somaliland is strategically located in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Lotem also mentioned the potential for cooperation in areas such as agriculture, water, health, and education. Several countries, including Ethiopia, the UAE, Turkey, Kenya, Denmark, and the UK, have established consulate offices in Somaliland, although they have not officially recognized it as an independent state. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro has previously stated that Somaliland is ready to join the Abraham Accords, which would contribute to peace and cooperation in the Middle East and Africa. In December of last year, Israel became the first UN member state to officially recognize Somaliland as an independent state. However, the Somali Federal Government strongly rejected this move, followed by condemnations from regional organizations.
