JEDDAH: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has strongly criticised Israel’s recent recognition of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, warning that the move could destabilise the Horn of Africa and have far-reaching consequences for regional peace.
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Speaking at the 22nd Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers on Saturday, Dar said Pakistan would not allow actions that undermine Somalia’s development, stability, or territorial integrity. “This development is a direct assault on Somalia’s internationally recognised borders and a flagrant violation of international law,” he stated, emphasising that state sovereignty is a peremptory norm from which no deviation is permitted.
Dar also addressed the humanitarian situation in Gaza, urging urgent measures to end the war and ensure the uninterrupted delivery of aid to civilians. He rejected any scheme to forcibly displace Palestinians, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for their right to self-determination.
On the issue of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIJOK), Dar described the ongoing conflict as South Asia’s primary flashpoint, calling for renewed UN-led efforts to secure a just and lasting resolution in line with Security Council resolutions and Kashmiri aspirations.
OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha described Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as a dangerous precedent that violates international law and threatens regional stability. The OIC adopted a resolution reaffirming Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, condemning the Israeli visit to Somaliland on January 6, 2026, and warning against any foreign military or intelligence presence on Somali soil.
The resolution stated that Somaliland is an inseparable part of Somalia and that any attempt to recognise or engage with it outside Somalia’s federal framework constitutes interference in internal affairs. The OIC urged member states and international organisations to refrain from any official or quasi-official dealings with Somaliland authorities.
Additionally, the OIC condemned any attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians and called on the UN Security Council, UN General Assembly, and international community to uphold their obligations to maintain peace and security in the Horn of Africa and beyond.
