By Rismadarvoice Media
January 1, 2026
The government of Somaliland has denied reports claiming it agreed to host Israeli military bases or resettle Palestinians displaced by the war in Gaza, describing the allegations as false and misleading.
Officials in Hargeisa said there has been no agreement discussion or negotiation with Israel or any other country regarding the relocation of Palestinians or the establishment of foreign military bases on Somaliland territory. They stressed that such claims do not reflect Somaliland’s policies or diplomatic engagements.
The denial followed statements attributed to officials in Somalia, suggesting that Somaliland had entered into secret arrangements with Israel in exchange for diplomatic recognition.
Somaliland authorities rejected the claims saying they were aimed at creating tension and discrediting the region’s quest for international legitimacy.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has operated as a self governing entity with its own institutions and security structures though it remains unrecognized internationally. In recent years, it has sought stronger diplomatic, economic ties with various countries as part of its push for recognition.
Government officials reiterated that Somaliland supports peace, stability and humanitarian principles and would not engage in actions that could inflame regional tensions or violate international norms.
The issue has sparked debate across the Horn of Africa as regional actors closely monitor developments surrounding Gaza, Israel and broader Middle East politics.
