Israel Stuns Africa, Recognizes Breakaway Somaliland

The African Union (AU) has condemned Israel's decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent country. The AU's Peace and Security Council called the move "illegal." In a statement, the council said Israel's recognition is a direct threat to Somalia's sovereignty. It also warned the action could destabilize the entire Horn of Africa region. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991. No United Nations member state has formally recognized it. Israel's decision is a major shift in diplomatic policy. The African Union strongly supports Somalia's territorial unity. It views any recognition of Somaliland as a violation of international law.