HARGEISA – Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) returned to Hargeisa on Thursday to a warm welcome from government officials, security forces, and hundreds of citizens, following his landmark state visit to Israel.
The president was received at the airport by senior Somaliland officials and escorted in a large motorcade through the capital, where crowds had gathered to greet him. Videos and images shared by the Somaliland presidency showed the president waving to supporters as he arrived.
Irro’s visit to Israel marked the first official trip by a Somaliland leader since Israel recognised the breakaway region in December 2025. During the visit, he opened Somaliland’s embassy in Jerusalem and met with senior Israeli officials, including President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
President Describes Visit as ‘Successful’
In brief remarks to the media upon his arrival, President Irro described the visit as a success for Somaliland, saying it would strengthen efforts to seek international recognition and expand the territory’s global engagement.
“The government and people of Israel have shown a genuine willingness for cooperation and partnership across multiple areas,” Irro said. He highlighted potential areas of collaboration, including economic development, security cooperation, agriculture, water management, technology, and institutional capacity building.
The president’s return coincides with the 66th anniversary of June 26, 1960, when the former British Somaliland Protectorate gained independence. He is expected to deliver an address on the occasion, reflecting on the government’s achievements and diplomatic efforts.
Regional Reactions and Opposition
The visit and the establishment of diplomatic ties with Israel have drawn sharp criticism from the Federal Government of Somalia, which considers Somaliland an integral part of its territory. Mogadishu has warned that it reserves the right to take all lawful measures against Israel over its engagement with Somaliland.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development has reiterated its support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, cautioning that actions undermining Somalia’s unity could increase tensions and harm regional stability.
Way Forward
President Irro is expected to hold meetings with senior officials in Hargeisa to brief them on his discussions in Israel and the agreements reached during the visit. The trip has raised Somaliland’s international profile but has also deepened the diplomatic rift with Mogadishu and drawn concern from regional actors.