Somaliland Appoints First Ambassador to Israel Ahead of Presidential Visit

Ethiomonitor – Addis Ababa 

February 26  2026

In a landmark development, Somaliland has appointed Dr. Mohamed Haji Kawol as its first ambassador to Israel. This strategic move precedes President Abdirahman Abdullahi’s scheduled visit to Tel Aviv at the end of March, underscoring the strengthening diplomatic ties between the two regions.

This appointment marks a significant milestone in the evolving relationship between Israel and Somaliland, which has seen considerable growth in recent months. The Israeli government has officially confirmed the acceptance of Dr. Haji’s credentials.

While the specifics regarding Dr. Haji’s official role and the agenda for the upcoming presidential visit remain undisclosed, this recognition is noteworthy as it constitutes the first acknowledgment of Somaliland’s independence from a nation outside the Horn of Africa. This development signals a new chapter in Somaliland’s international relations and aspirations for broader recognition on the global stage.