Israel's newly appointed ambassador, Michael Lotem, has presented his diplomatic credentials to Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, marking another step in strengthening bilateral relations following the December 2025 mutual recognition announcement.
The ceremony took place at the presidential palace in Hargeisa, according to a statement from Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which described the appointment as another step towards deepening relations between the two sides.
The development follows a landmark announcement on December 26, 2025, when Israel and Somaliland declared mutual recognition, paving the way for the establishment of formal diplomatic relations.
Since the announcement, both sides have taken steps to strengthen their political and diplomatic engagement, including high-level visits, the exchange of ambassadors and plans to establish diplomatic missions.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar visited Somaliland in January 2026, becoming one of the most senior Israeli officials to travel to the territory since the recognition announcement.
In June, Somaliland opened an embassy in Jerusalem during a visit by President Cirro to Israel, marking another significant step in the development of bilateral relations.
Israel's Foreign Ministry said the two sides had continued to advance their diplomatic cooperation since establishing mutual recognition, with the latest ambassadorial appointment reflecting their commitment to building closer ties.
Following the presentation of credentials, officials also laid the foundation stone for a new Israeli embassy building in Hargeisa, according to the ministry.
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The construction of the facility is expected to further formalise Israel's diplomatic presence in Somaliland and provide a permanent base for its diplomatic activities in the territory.
Sa'ar said the appointment of ambassadors by both sides was part of the agreement reached when they established mutual recognition, describing the move as an important milestone in strengthening bilateral relations.
"Israel is committed to advancing and strengthening its relations with Somaliland. The appointment of ambassadors, in accordance with the agreement our countries reached when they established mutual recognition, is another important step towards deepening our relationship," Sa'ar said.
The latest developments underscore the growing diplomatic engagement between Israel and Somaliland, which has sought greater international recognition since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991.
Somaliland has maintained its own government, security forces, currency and electoral institutions for more than three decades, but its claims to sovereignty have largely gone unrecognised internationally.
Somalia's federal government has consistently rejected Somaliland's independence and considers the territory an integral part of the country. Mogadishu has opposed international moves that could be interpreted as recognising Somaliland as a separate state.
Israel's recognition announcement in December 2025 marked a significant shift in Somaliland's longstanding efforts to secure international recognition and triggered diplomatic reactions over its implications for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The exchange of ambassadors and the planned establishment of permanent diplomatic missions signal that both sides intend to move beyond the initial recognition announcement towards a more institutionalised relationship.
The latest ceremony in Hargeisa represents another step in that process, as Israel and Somaliland continue to expand their diplomatic engagement.
About the Author
Ahmed Omar is a senior journalist for Somali Report, based in Mogadishu. He has two decades of experience reporting on Somalia for international and local media. He covers politics, security, governance, business, trade, economic developments and regional affairs.
