Move follows Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, marking a significant geopolitical shift in the Horn of Africa.
Jerusalem (Horn post) Israel has taken a significant diplomatic step by appointing its first-ever ambassador to Somaliland, signaling a deepening of ties with the Somaliland a republic in the Horn of Africa.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has named Michael Lotem as Israel’s first ambassador to Somaliland, according to official sources.
Lotem, a seasoned diplomat currently serving as a roving economic ambassador for Africa, will initially operate as a non-resident envoy based in another country. He has previously held key diplomatic roles as Israel’s ambassador to Kenya, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.
The appointment follows a major development earlier this year when Israel became the first United Nations member state to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state. The move marked a turning point in Somaliland’s long-standing pursuit of international recognition.
In a reciprocal step, Somaliland appointed its first ambassador to Israel in February, following the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two sides in December.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry said the decision reflects a broader strategy to strengthen political, economic and strategic partnerships across Africa. The Horn of Africa region has increasingly become an area of geopolitical competition, with countries seeking to expand influence through diplomatic and economic engagement.
The nomination is subject to final approval by Israel’s government and relevant appointments committee.
For Somaliland, the development represents a strategic gain in its ongoing efforts to secure broader international recognition and expand its diplomatic footprint.
Source: i24news
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