Somalia, Somaliland spar over claims of deal to receive Gaza mass migration

Somalia’s president claims breakaway republic recognized by Israel signed secret deal to open its doors to mass migration from Gaza; Somaliland denies any agreement with Israel beyond diplomatic recognition.

By David Rosenberg, World Israel News

The president of Somalia on Wednesday claimed that a breakaway republic recognized by Israel had signed a secret agreement with the Jewish state, agreeing to accept large numbers of Gaza refugees and to grant Israel the right to establish military bases in its territory in exchange for recognition.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made the claims during an interview with Al Jazeera, noting that the move came amid efforts by Israel and the US to find countries to take in large numbers of Gazans.

“After 34 years it was very unexpected and strange that Israel, out of nowhere, just jumped in and said, ‘We recognize Somaliland’,” Mohamud said, claiming the move was “not merely a diplomatic gesture but a cover for specific, high-stakes Israeli strategic objectives.”

Mohamud claimed Somaliland had agreed not only to accept Gaza migrants and permit Israel to establish military bases, but also to join the Abraham Accords.

“Israel does not have any peaceful intentions in coming to Somalia. This is a step of utmost danger, and the whole world, especially Arabs and Muslims, must view it as a serious threat.”

However, on Thursday, the Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation denied Mohamud’s claims, stating that the agreement with Israel was “purely diplomatic,” focused on mutual recognition.

“The Government of the Republic of Somaliland firmly rejects false claims made by the president of Somalia alleging the resettlement of Palestinians or the establishment of military bases in Somaliland,” the breakaway republic said.

“Somaliland’s engagement with the State of Israel is purely diplomatic, conducted in full respect of international law and the mutual sovereign interests of both countries.”

“These baseless allegations are intended to mislead the international community and undermine Somaliland’s diplomatic progress. Somaliland remains committed to regional stability, and peaceful international cooperation.”