Israel’s Ambassador to Somaliland, Michael Lotem, presented his credentials to President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi last week in a historic ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.
The ceremony marks another important step in strengthening relations between Israel and Somaliland, following their mutual recognition on December 26, 2025.
Since then, ties between the two countries have continued to develop. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar made a historic visit to Somaliland in January 2026, while Somaliland opened its embassy in Jerusalem during President Abdullahi’s visit to Israel in June 2026.
Following the presentation of credentials, a cornerstone-laying ceremony was held for Israel’s new embassy in Hargeisa.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said:
“Israel is determined to develop and strengthen its relations with Somaliland.
“The appointment of ambassadors, in accordance with the agreement reached when our countries established mutual recognition, is another important step in deepening the ties between us.”
