The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has issued a powerful condemnation of Israel's recent move to recognise the breakaway region of Somaliland. The 57-member bloc, representing the collective voice of the Muslim world, labelled the action a blatant violation of international law and United Nations resolutions that safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia.
OIC's Firm Stance on Somalia's Unity
The decisive statement emerged from an extraordinary meeting of the OIC's Council of Foreign Ministers, convened in the city of Banjul, The Gambia, on May 2, 2024. The meeting was specifically called to address the latest developments in Somalia, with the primary focus being Israel's controversial diplomatic manoeuvre. The council's final communiqué left no room for ambiguity, firmly rejecting and condemning Israel's recognition of Somaliland.
The OIC views this act as a direct assault on the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. It reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Somali government, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and its constitutional authority over all Somali territory. The council emphasised that any agreements or understandings reached by the Somaliland administration with external entities, particularly Israel, hold no legal weight and are considered null and void.
A Call for International Respect and Restraint
Beyond the condemnation, the OIC foreign ministers issued a clear call to action for the international community. They urged all OIC member states and the wider world to fully respect Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. A key demand was for nations to refrain from any actions or engagements that could be interpreted as recognising Somaliland's self-declared independence.
The council framed Israel's recognition not merely as a bilateral issue but as a destabilising factor for the entire Horn of Africa region. It warned that such unilateral actions exacerbate existing tensions and undermine ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace, security, and stability in Somalia, which has been working to rebuild after decades of conflict.
Repercussions and the Path Forward
The OIC's strong diplomatic rebuke places significant international pressure on Israel regarding its Somaliland policy. By invoking violations of established international law and UN principles, the organisation is mobilising a unified Islamic diplomatic front. This move strengthens Somalia's position on the global stage as it seeks to counter what it sees as an illegal secession.
The council concluded its deliberations by mandating the OIC General Secretariat to closely monitor the situation and follow up on the implementation of its resolutions. It also expressed solidarity with the Somali people and government in their efforts to preserve national unity. This collective stance from the OIC marks a critical moment in the diplomatic struggle over Somaliland's status, setting the stage for further international discourse and potential countermeasures.
