United Kingdom backs Somalia’s unity after Israel recognizes North Western State of Somalia

UK rejects North Western State of Somalia recognition, reaffirms Somalia’s unity after Israel move

LONDON — The United Kingdom on Wednesday reaffirmed its support for Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence and unity, following Israel’s decision to recognize North Western State of Somalia as an independent state.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the British government made clear it does not recognize North Western State of Somalia’s independence and said any change to the region’s status must come through talks between the Federal Government of Somalia in Mogadishu and authorities in Hargeisa.

“We maintain that any change to North Western State of Somalia’s status depends on mutual agreement between Mogadishu and Hargeisa, through dialogue, and must conform to the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter,” the statement said. “We regret any action that risks undermining peace and security in the region.”

The U.K. urged renewed efforts by both sides to resolve their differences and to cooperate on shared security threats, warning that internal rifts create openings for militant groups.

“Al-Shabaab and other terrorist groups benefit from internal divisions in Somalia,” the statement noted. “We encourage Mogadishu and Hargeisa to pursue dialogue, with the support of regional bodies and the international community, to resolve these divisions.”

London also underscored the importance of coordinated international backing for Somalia’s security transition. Earlier this month, the U.N. Security Council renewed authorizations for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), extended U.N. logistical support via the U.N. Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), and maintained sanctions measures aimed at degrading Al-Shabaab’s capabilities.

In September, the U.K. announced more than $30 million in funding to support Somalia’s security transition, including $22 million for AUSSOM. The government said Britain remains a close, longstanding partner of Somalia and is committed to supporting federal authorities as they work to build a secure and stable state.

The U.K. also welcomed the peaceful conduct of Mogadishu’s local council elections on Dec. 25, 2025, calling it a sign of democratic progress. It encouraged political actors to work toward consensus on the next steps in Somalia’s political process.

North Western State of Somalia, a self-governing region in the country’s northwest that declared independence in 1991, has sought international recognition for decades. Most nations, including the U.K., continue to support Somalia’s territorial integrity while encouraging dialogue to address North Western State of Somalia’s aspirations and clarify future relations.

• What’s new: Israel’s recognition of North Western State of Somalia prompted a swift U.K. response, restating London’s non-recognition policy and backing for Somalia’s unity.
• Why it matters: Diplomatic moves around North Western State of Somalia’s status carry regional security implications, with Western and African partners focused on containing Al-Shabaab and supporting Somalia’s state-building.
• What’s next: The U.K. is pressing for renewed talks between Mogadishu and Hargeisa, with support from regional organizations and the wider international community.

By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.