Israel Names First Ambassador to Somaliland as Diplomatic Ties Advance

Mintesinot Nigussie

Israel has appointed its first ambassador to Somaliland, marking a formal step in the expansion of relations with the self-declared state. The envoy is reported to be Michael Lotem, a former ambassador to Kenya, as Israel moves to establish a structured diplomatic presence in Hargeisa following its recognition of Somaliland in December 2025.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 after a civil war, but it has not been recognised by Mogadishu or the international community. Somalia continues to consider the territory part of its sovereign state and has condemned Israel’s decision to appoint an ambassador, describing it as a “direct breach” of Somalia’s sovereignty and unity.

On the Somaliland side, Dr Mohamed Haji has reportedly been designated as ambassador to Israel, signalling a reciprocal exchange of envoys. The development does not extend to Somalia, where Israel has no ambassador and where diplomatic relations remain absent.

Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and the subsequent diplomatic steps have drawn criticism from several international bodies, including the United Nations Security Council, the African Union, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the European Union.

Businesses and investors monitoring developments in the Horn of Africa are watching the diplomatic moves, as they could influence regional trade, investment and security dynamics.

Overall, Israel’s appointment of its first ambassador to Somaliland marks a significant advancement in diplomatic ties with the self-declared state and highlights shifting alliances in the Horn of Africa.