Michael Lotem presents credentials as Israel’s first ambassador to Somaliland
The ceremony in Hargeisa included laying the cornerstone for a new embassy, capping mutual recognition signed in late 2025.
By Lorenzo Patterson ·
Israel has formally appointed its first ambassador to Somaliland, marking the completion of a diplomatic process that began in December 2025.
Michael Lotem presented his credentials to Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi in Hargeisa last week. The Israeli foreign ministry confirmed the event in a statement released on Sunday.
During the ceremony, officials laid the cornerstone for the future Israeli embassy. Lotem stated that Israel’s recognition acknowledges the 35 years of development Somaliland has achieved since declaring independence in 1991. He described the move as more than a diplomatic formality.
Abdullahi noted that this is the first time a Somaliland president has received credentials from an ambassador representing a United Nations member state that recognizes the territory’s independence. He emphasized the strategic value of the region, noting that Somaliland sits near the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
“Given our strategic position around the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, our cooperation also carries important regional and international significance,” Abdullahi said. He added that Somaliland approaches the relationship with a long-term perspective and genuine strategic commitment.
The two nations signed a mutual recognition agreement on December 26, 2025. Since then, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has visited the region, and Somaliland opened an embassy in west Jerusalem during Abdullahi’s visit in June. Saar said Israel is determined to strengthen its ties with the breakaway territory.
Israel is currently the only state to recognize Somaliland as an independent nation. The territory maintains strong economic links with the United Arab Emirates, which operates a military base and a major port in the commercial capital of Berbera. DP World, an Emirati logistics firm, manages the port in partnership with the British government’s foreign investment arm. Israel and Somaliland are also in talks regarding the construction of a naval base on the Red Sea coast.
