Arrests follow Israel’s December recognition, sparking political debate and calls for both transparency and national unity.
Authorities in the Republic of Somaliland announced Tuesday they had dismantled what they described as a foreign-backed network allegedly supported by Somalia’s federal government and external actors, claiming it was intended to undermine Israel’s recent recognition of the self-declared republic.
Interior and Security Minister Abdalle Mohamed Arab Sandheere told reporters that several individuals had been arrested for working against what he called a historic diplomatic breakthrough. He alleged that the group was financed abroad and was linked directly to Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, although no evidence was publicly presented. Mogadishu has not yet responded to the accusations.
The arrests follow weeks of political tension after Israel’s 26 December recognition — the first formal acknowledgement of Somaliland’s restoration of independence since 1991. Authorities have detained religious leaders, youth activists, and online commentators critical of the move.
Government officials say both the House of Representatives and the Council of Ministers have resolved to act against opponents of the recognition, though no legal framework has been outlined. Former President Muse Bihi Abdi has urged transparency, calling on the administration to disclose the full terms of any agreement with Israel.
Somaliland has not clarified whether the arrangement with Israel constitutes a treaty or another diplomatic accord. The recognition has been rejected by Somalia’s federal authorities and criticized by regional actors, although Mogadishu has no jurisdiction over Somaliland whatsoever and none of its officials can set foot in Somaliland, adding new strain to the Horn of Africa’s fragile political landscape.
