Somalia’s Presidency said international and regional backing for Somalia’s sovereignty and unity helped block efforts by Israel to recognize the self-declared Somaliland administration. Mogadishu said such recognition would violate international law, the United Nations Charter, and the principle of non-interference. The government rejected engagement with separatist entities and reaffirmed cooperation with partners to safeguard stability in the Horn of Africa and pursue peaceful, unity-preserving solutions.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud paid an unannounced visit to former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed as political tensions deepen over constitutional amendments and electoral reforms. The rare meeting is seen as an attempt to ease divisions between the federal government and opposition leaders critical of recent changes expanding presidential powers and altering the electoral system. The talks come amid strained relations with federal member states and uncertainty ahead of the 2026 elections.

Tens of thousands of Somalis rallied nationwide to protest Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, calling it a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty. Demonstrations were held in Mogadishu, Baidoa, Dhusamareeb, Lasanod, and other towns. The protests coincided with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Türkiye for talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Somalia raised the issue at an emergency UN Security Council meeting, warning the move could destabilize the Horn of Africa.

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held an emergency meeting in Jeddah to address developments in Somalia following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland. Representing the secretary-general, OIC Deputy Secretary-General Yousef Al Dubaie said Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity are non-negotiable. The OIC reaffirmed full support for the Somali federal government and rejected any actions that could impose a new political reality or destabilize the Horn of Africa.

Somalia’s armed forces killed 29 al-Shabaab militants in Jabad Godane, southeastern Somalia, during operations coordinated with international partners, the Defense Ministry said. Separate overnight airstrikes in the Middle Shabelle region destroyed vehicles and weapons intended for attacks on civilians. The ministry praised continued international support in intelligence sharing and security cooperation as Somalia presses its campaign against the militant group, which has waged an insurgency since 2007.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah held a phone call with Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Abdisalam Abdi Ali to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments. The talks emphasized preserving Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. Both sides reviewed issues of mutual concern, reflecting continued diplomatic coordination as Saudi Arabia reiterates its support for Somalia’s political unity, stability, and long-term security.