Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar declared on Sunday that the recognition of the self-proclaimed “Somaliland” by Israel represents a form of “political aggression,” endangering peace and security across the Horn of Africa and the broader Red Sea region. His remarks were made during an extraordinary session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers, convened in Saudi Arabia.
The OIC’s gathering comes in light of Israel’s recent acknowledgment of Somaliland’s independence, which has been labelled as unlawful by Somalia. Following this recognition, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar made an unannounced visit to Somaliland, prompting Somali officials to denounce it as an “unauthorised incursion”.
In his address, Dar reasserted Pakistan’s “unwavering support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” starkly condemning Israel’s actions as a violation of international law and a direct assault on Somalia’s borders. “The principle of state sovereignty and territorial integrity constitutes a peremptory norm of international law from which no deviation or derogation is permitted,” he stated.
He emphasized that the internationally recognized borders of Somalia are “sacrosanct and inviolable,” insisting that Somaliland remains an “integral, inseparable, and inalienable part of Somalia.” He maintained that any international recognition of Somaliland should be deemed “null and void,” asserting that no external actor has the authority to alter this reality.
Dar further described Israel’s actions as a dangerous precedent, warning that such developments jeopardize peace and security not only in the Horn of Africa but also in other regions. Pakistan supported a joint OIC statement, which categorically rejected Israel’s action, terming the recognition of “parts of states” a violation of foundational principles of international law and the UN Charter.
He voiced concern over these developments occurring at a time when Somalia is making positive strides towards political stability, including national reconciliation and economic reform. Dar urged OIC countries to unite against Israeli actions that could undermine Somalia’s progress and stability.
Moreover, Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to refrain from any engagement that undermines Somalia’s sovereignty. He also expressed solidarity with the Palestinian cause, rejecting any plans for the forced displacement of Palestinians, linking them to the situation in Somaliland.
Calling for a collective OIC response, he stated, “This meeting today is a resounding manifestation of our collective solidarity with Somalia against a blatant transgression of its sovereignty by a decidedly un-conscientious actor.” Dar concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to support Somalia in its pursuit of peace and progress.
–LORD
