US reaffirms support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, rejects reports of Policy shift

The United States has reaffirmed that its position on Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remains unchanged, dismissing speculation that the Trump administration has endorsed Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.

A US representative told the United Nations Security Council in December 2025 that Washington continued to recognize Somalia’s territorial integrity, including Somaliland, following Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland. The United States also said at the time that it had no announcement regarding US recognition of Somaliland.

The clarification comes after Israel formally recognized Somaliland as an independent state on December 26, 2025, becoming the first country to do so. The move was strongly rejected by Somalia and prompted opposition from a number of regional and international actors.

Washington’s position therefore remains distinct from that of Israel. The US has continued to recognize Somalia’s territorial integrity, including Somaliland, rather than following Israel’s decision to establish formal relations with the breakaway region.

The US position is consistent with longstanding State Department policy. Washington has previously stated that it recognizes Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, including Somaliland and Puntland.

Somalia has welcomed international support for its territorial integrity and has maintained that any unilateral attempt to alter the country’s territorial status violates its sovereignty. The United Nations and regional organizations, including IGAD and the European Union, have similarly emphasized respect for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.

The issue has become a significant diplomatic matter in the Horn of Africa, with Somalia warning that recognition of Somaliland could undermine regional stability and challenge the established international position on Somalia’s borders.

For Mogadishu, Washington’s continued recognition of Somalia’s territorial integrity represents an important diplomatic position as the federal government seeks to prevent further international recognition of Somaliland’s independence.

Mustaqbal