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The move follows Israel’s decision in December 2025 to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state, becoming the first UN member state to do so.
By United with Israel Staff
Israel has appointed its first-ever ambassador to Somaliland, marking a historic step in relations with the self-declared republic in the Horn of Africa.
The Israeli government on Sunday unanimously approved the appointment of veteran diplomat Michael Lotem, following a recommendation by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar.
Lotem, a career diplomat since 1993, has held senior roles focused on economic and regional cooperation, including ambassadorial posts in Kenya, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, as well as serving as Israel’s consul general in St. Petersburg.
He most recently led Israel’s mission in East Africa, where he worked to expand partnerships in agriculture, water management, and innovation.
In the initial phase, he is expected to serve as a non-resident ambassador to Somaliland.
The move follows Israel’s decision in December 2025 to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state, becoming the first UN member state to do so.
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, operates with its own government and institutions but is not widely recognized internationally.
Sa’ar visited Somaliland earlier this year, where he announced plans to establish full diplomatic ties, including the mutual appointment of ambassadors and the opening of embassies.
“These are historic days that we hope will mark the beginning of a deep friendship between our peoples for many years to come,” Sa’ar said, adding that Somaliland is “not a virtual state” but a functioning democracy that has demonstrated stability for more than three decades.
He also said the sides agreed to expand cooperation across key areas, including security, economics, water, agriculture, and development, while stressing that Israel determines its own diplomatic relationships.
The president of Somaliland welcomed the visit as a “significant milestone” and said he expects to visit Israel in the near future as ties continue to deepen.
The appointment has drawn criticism from Iran, which accused Israel of violating Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei called the move a breach of international law and the UN Charter.
Somalia, which claims Somaliland as part of its territory, does not recognize Israel.
The appointment signals a growing Israeli diplomatic footprint in Africa, particularly with partners seen as stable, pro-Western, and strategically aligned.
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