Somaliland divisions remain as it marks independence day after Israel recognition
Somaliland celebrated its independence day on May 18, marking its first since Israel recognized its sovereignty. While many Somalilanders welcomed this recognition, dissenting voices emerged, particularly in the western city of Borama, where protests occurred against the ties with Israel. The situation remains tense, with fears of renewed conflict as Somaliland does not fully control its claimed territory and faces opposition from neighboring regions.
- ▪Somaliland celebrated its independence day on May 18, following Israel's recognition of its sovereignty.
- ▪Protests erupted in Borama against the recognition, leading to arrests and clashes with security forces.
- ▪Concerns about renewed conflict persist, as Somaliland does not fully control its claimed territory and faces opposition from North East State.
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Somaliland divisions remain as it marks independence day after Israel recognitionSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxPeople hold the flag of Somaliland during the parade in Hargeisa, Somaliland, May 18, 2024.PHOTO: REUTERSPublished May 18, 2026, 03:42 PMUpdated May 18, 2026, 03:42 PMMOGADISHU - Somaliland celebrates its first independence day on May 18 since being recognised as a country by Israel, but not everyone in the breakaway region of Somalia has welcomed its new ally.Thousands gathered in the capital Hargeisa for a military parade, traditional dances and political speeches, with added excitement this year following Israel’s move in December to recognise Somaliland’s independence – the first country to do so since it declared its separation from Somalia in…
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