'Netanyahu isn't good. He killed many people in Gaza': Somalilanders celebrate Israeli recognition – with reservations
In Somaliland, attitudes to Israel's recognition are not uniform, and many identify with Palestinian struggles. But still, most view recognition from any country as a reason for celebration. 'After 34 years, we finally got what we were waiting for,' says one Somalilander

Credit: Refael Kubersky
In Somaliland, attitudes to Israel's recognition are not uniform, and many identify with Palestinian struggles. But still, most view recognition from any country as a reason for celebration. 'After 34 years, we finally got what we were waiting for,' says one Somalilander

08:30 PM • December 31 2025 IST
On Sunday, thousands of Somalilanders flooded the streets of the capital, Hargeisa, for the third straight day. It felt like the city had not slept since Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland as an independent state last Friday.






