In a powerful display of diplomatic unity, Pakistan has joined forces with twenty-three other Muslim-majority nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to issue a stern condemnation of Israel's actions in the Horn of Africa. The coalition has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
A Unified Front Against External Interference
The foreign ministers of Algeria, Bangladesh, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Gambia, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Türkiye, and Yemen released a joint statement on Thursday. This collective action builds upon their earlier statement from 27 December 2025, in which they had already rejected Israel's recognition of the "Somaliland" region.
The ministers expressed their strong condemnation of a recent illegal visit by an Israeli official to the "Somaliland" Region on 6 January 2026. They declared that this visit constitutes a blatant violation of Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Furthermore, they stated that such actions undermine established international norms and the fundamental principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.
Risking Stability in a Fragile Region
The joint communique underlined a critical concern: encouraging secessionist agendas is completely unacceptable. The ministers warned that such moves risk exacerbating tensions in an already fragile region, threatening wider stability. They emphasized that respect for international law, the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states, and adherence to diplomatic norms are essential pillars for maintaining both regional and international peace.
In their statement, the diplomats commended the Federal Republic of Somalia for its demonstrated commitment to peaceful international engagement and constructive diplomacy. They praised Somalia's adherence to international law in handling the matter.
Commitment to Continued Support
The coalition of foreign ministers expressed their firm commitment to continue supporting the diplomatic and legal measures taken by Somalia to safeguard its sovereignty, unity, and stability. These measures are to be pursued in full compliance with international law.
The statement concluded with a direct demand directed at Israel. The ministers stressed that Israel must fully respect Somalia's sovereignty, national unity, and territorial integrity. They demanded that Israel honor its obligations under international law and called for the immediate revocation of its recognition issued for the Somaliland region.
