Israel’s first ambassador to Somaliland presents credentials in Hargeisa

Israeli Ambassador Michael Lotem presented his credentials to Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi at a ceremony held last week in Hargeisa. Officials also laid the cornerstone for an Israeli embassy. The move puts into practice the December 26, 2025 agreement under which Israel became the first UN member state to recognise Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said the exchange of ambassadors fulfilled commitments made when relations were established.