The United States has reaffirmed its support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, signalling that it continues to view Somaliland as part of the Federal Republic of Somalia despite the territory’s longstanding quest for international recognition.
In a report submitted to Congress titled Potential Areas for Improved United States Engagement with Somaliland, the US State Department stated that Somaliland remains part of Somalia under current US policy.
“Within that framework, the United States maintains a positive, constructive relationship with Somaliland and continues to explore additional opportunities for engagement with Somaliland authorities,” the report said.
The statement comes months after Israel formally recognised Somaliland, becoming the first country to do so. The move has renewed debate over the status of the self-governing territory, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not received widespread international recognition.
Growing International Engagement
According to sources in Somalia and Somaliland, Somaliland President Abdirahman Abdullahi Mohamed visited Israel in late 2025, where he reportedly met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior officials.
The reported meetings were followed by Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and a series of diplomatic exchanges between officials from both sides. Somaliland has since announced closer ties with Israel, including plans to establish diplomatic representation in Jerusalem.
Somaliland’s government is also seeking recognition from other countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, India, Cyprus and Georgia.
Washington’s Position
Despite lobbying efforts by supporters of Somaliland’s independence, analysts say there is little indication that the current US administration intends to formally recognise the territory.
A congressional source familiar with discussions on the issue said there had been no clear sign that President Donald Trump’s administration was prepared to alter longstanding US policy toward Somalia’s territorial integrity.
A Somali policy adviser, who requested anonymity because of professional ties to officials in both Somalia and Somaliland, described the State Department report as a significant signal.
“This may effectively close the door on any lingering hopes of US recognition for Somaliland in the near future,” the adviser said.
Others argue that closer engagement without formal recognition remains possible. Rooble Mohamed, a consultant to Somaliland’s communications ministry, said the report reflects the current reality rather than a final determination on Somaliland’s status.
“The United States does not currently recognise Somaliland, so such a statement is expected,” he said. “There are examples around the world where countries maintain extensive relations with territories they do not formally recognise as sovereign states.”
Strategic Importance
Somaliland’s location along the Gulf of Aden, near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, has increased its strategic significance in recent years.
The State Department report highlighted Somaliland’s position near key maritime routes linking the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, noting its potential value as a partner on security issues, including freedom of navigation.
Berbera, Somaliland’s main port, has attracted growing international interest. The facility is operated by UAE-based logistics company DP World and has undergone significant expansion in recent years. The report also cited ongoing development at Berbera’s port and airport, describing them as potential regional trade and transportation hubs serving both Somaliland and neighbouring Ethiopia.
The report noted that Somaliland authorities have encouraged foreign investment in sectors including infrastructure, trade and mining. Officials in Hargeisa have previously stated that the territory possesses deposits of lithium, coltan and other minerals considered important for modern industries.
However, the State Department cautioned that unresolved questions surrounding Somaliland’s political status continue to present challenges for investment, banking and trade.
“Regional security concerns and the dispute over Somaliland’s status, including its refusal to cooperate with national authorities, present challenges for investment, banking, and trade,” the report stated.
Recognition Remains the Priority
For Somaliland’s leadership, international recognition remains a central objective.
Asked whether closer ties with Israel could prove controversial given wider regional tensions, Mohamed said Somaliland’s overriding priority was securing international recognition.
“Recognition is bigger than anything else,” he said. “We are a Muslim society, but having relations with Israel does not mean we regard Palestinians as enemies.”
While Somaliland continues to expand its international partnerships, the latest US position suggests Washington remains committed to Somalia’s internationally recognised borders, even as it explores greater engagement with authorities in Hargeisa.
