By Pesach Benson • June 14, 2026
Jerusalem, 14 June, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Visiting Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi is now meeting in Jerusalem with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on the African leader’s first official visit to Israel.
The move follows Israel’s decision in December to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, more than three decades after the territory split from Somalia in 1991. No other country has formally extended recognition.
Abdullahi is accompanied by his wife, First Lady Fardowsa Mohamed Roble.
Situated in the Horn of Africa, Somaliland’s northern coast lies directly across the Gulf of Aden from Yemen, where the Houthis control territory. Israel is reportedly interested in establishing a base in Somaliland to counter Houthi and Iranian threats to Red Sea shipping. Officials in Hargeisa are interested in cooperating in areas such as energy, infrastructure, and agriculture.
Abdullahi has also expressed interest in joining the Abraham Accords.
