Israel has become the first country to officially recognize Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, as an independent state. The announcement was followed by reactions from the United States and Turkey. U.S. President Donald Trump said he does not intend to follow Israel’s decision, adding that the matter will be reviewed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he would inform Trump about Somaliland’s interest in joining the Abraham Accords during their scheduled meeting on Monday.

Turkey strongly condemned Israel’s move, calling it illegal. Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oncu Keçeli said on social media that the recognition represents another example of what he described as the Netanyahu government’s unlawful actions aimed at creating instability both regionally and globally. Keçeli added that the decision constitutes open interference in Somalia’s internal affairs and emphasized that any decisions about the future of Somalia and Somaliland should reflect the will of the Somali people.

The development has introduced new diplomatic tensions involving Israel, Turkey, and the United States, while raising questions about the future of regional stability in the Horn of Africa.

Somali government forces carried out six airstrikes in the Lower Shabelle region, killing at least 82 Al-Shabaab militants and severely injuring 19 others. Somalia’s intelligence agency has warned civilians to stay away from militant hideouts as they remain prime targets for military operations.