From the Liveblog of
Thursday, January 1, 2026
Somaliland denies it agreed to accept Gaza refugees or host Israeli military bases
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Somaliland issues an official denial that it would accept Gazan refugees or allow Israel to establish military bases on its soil in exchange for Israeli recognition.
“The Government of the Republic of Somaliland firmly rejects false claims made by the President of Somalia alleging the resettlement of Palestinians or the establishment of military bases in Somaliland,” the foreign ministry of Somaliland writes in an official post on X.
Last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel would recognize the independence of Somaliland, becoming the first UN member state to do so. The move drew outrage from Somalia as well as many Middle Eastern and African countries, and a rebuke from the EU.
The president of Somalia — which claims Somaliland as part of its territory — claimed during an interview on Al Jazeera yesterday that Israel had demanded such terms in exchange for its recognition.
“Somaliland’s engagement with the State of Israel is purely diplomatic, conducted in full respect of international law and the mutual sovereign interests of both countries,” the foreign ministry statement continues.
“These baseless allegations are intended to mislead the international community and undermine Somaliland’s diplomatic progress. Somaliland remains committed to regional stability, and peaceful international cooperation.”
Israel’s announcement of the recognition made no reference to quid pro quo demands or conditions.
The Times of Israel Community.