TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Representatives from 21 Arab, Islamic, and African countries have expressed their rejection and condemnation of Israel's decision to recognize Somaliland, which has separated from Somalia and declared itself an independent state.
The statement from the foreign ministers, released by the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday as quoted by Anadolu, reported that the 21 countries referred to Israel's decision as a "serious precedent" threatening "international peace and security.
In their joint statement, these countries strongly denounced the move, affirming that it violates principles of international law and the United Nations Charter, which explicitly establishes the obligation to protect a country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, reflecting Israel's expansionist stance.
The statement also referred to the decision as a blatant disregard of international law by Israel. The 21 nations also warned of the potentially serious impact of Israel's decision on peace and security in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.
They reiterated their full support for Somalia's sovereignty and emphatically rejected any actions that undermine Somalia's unity, territorial integrity, or sovereignty over its entire territory.
Furthermore, they entirely reject any potential linkage between this move and any attempt to forcibly displace the Palestinian people from their land, which is unconditionally rejected in any form.
On Friday, Israel became the first country in the world to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state. This move has triggered international condemnation from various countries in Africa and the Middle East.
Somaliland, which has not received official recognition since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, operates as an administrative, political, and security entity that is de facto independent.
The central government of Somalia has been unable to assert control over the region, while the leadership of Somaliland has not yet secured international recognition for its independence.
The Somali government refuses to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, viewing it as an integral part of its territory, and considers any agreements or direct engagement with the region as a violation of the country's sovereignty and unity.
Read: Israel Becomes First Nation to Recognize Somaliland
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