Somaliland recognized by Israel, president says

Israel recognized the Republic of Somaliland on Dec. 26, and President Abdullahi announced plans to open Somaliland's first embassy in Israel.

Israel's recognition of the Republic of Somaliland was announced on Dec. 26, according to the president of Somaliland. The president framed the move as rooted in historical ties and earlier international attention to violence in Somaliland. He also said Somaliland would inaugurate its first official embassy in Israel. The article notes Somaliland's long-standing claim to statehood and past diplomatic contacts with Israel. Key reported points: - Israel formally recognized Somaliland on Dec. 26, as stated by Somaliland's president. - The president said Somaliland will open its first embassy in Israel and plans to mark the inauguration with the national anthem. - The piece notes that Israel had raised alarms at the United Nations about violence in Somaliland in May 1990 and that Israel was among early recognizers of Somaliland in 1960. Summary: The recognition is presented by Somaliland's leader as a step toward broader international acceptance, with the immediate next step being the planned opening of an embassy in Israel. Wider international recognition beyond this announcement is undetermined at this time.