A senior Somaliland official has defended the breakaway region's decision to normalize relations with Israel, dismissing widespread condemnation from the Arab and Muslim world as hypocritical. Hersi Ali Haji Hassan, chairman of the ruling Waddani party, stated that Somaliland had "no choice" but to seek recognition from Tel Aviv after 34 years of isolation.
Hassan emphasized that Somaliland's pursuit of international recognition is a matter of survival, and the region cannot afford to be choosy about its allies. He pointed out that many Arab and Islamic countries have established diplomatic and economic ties with Israel, citing examples such as Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, and the UAE.
The official's comments come after Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar's visit to Hargeisa, the Somaliland capital, which sparked a diplomatic firestorm. The federal government in Mogadishu, which claims Somaliland as part of its territory, condemned the move as a violation of sovereignty. The Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) also issued statements rejecting the "separatist reality".
Somaliland's move has significant implications for regional geopolitics, with concerns raised about potential military cooperation between Israel and Somaliland. Hassan refused to rule out the possibility of an Israeli military base in Somaliland, saying the issue is "untimely" and will be discussed when the time comes.
What do you think are the potential benefits and drawbacks of Somaliland's decision to normalize relations with Israel?
How might this development impact the balance of power in the Horn of Africa?

