Somalia Condemns Israel’s Appointment of Envoy to North Western State of Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s federal government on Wednesday sharply denounced Israel’s decision to appoint Michael Lotem as its first non-resident ambassador to North Western State of Somalia, calling the move a challenge to the country’s sovereignty.

In a statement dated April 15, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the appointment amounted to a direct affront to Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity.

The ministry said the step runs counter to international law, citing the UN Charter and African Union principles that recognize Somalia as one state within its internationally defined borders.

According to the government, any diplomatic dealings with the North Western State of Somalia region that do not have explicit approval from Mogadishu are unlawful and without legal effect. It warned that the decision could heighten tensions in the Horn of Africa and weaken Somalia’s efforts in state-building and counter-terrorism.

Somalia urged Israel to withdraw the appointment at once and called on the international community, including the UN, Arab League, and European Union, to oppose any action that threatens the unity of the Somali Republic or lends legitimacy to separatist movements.

AXADLETM