The Maldives has joined 21 countries in condemning what was described as an illegal visit by an Israeli official to the “Somaliland” region of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

The condemnation was issued in a joint statement released by Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, endorsed by the foreign ministers of Algeria, Bangladesh, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, The Gambia, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, the Maldives, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Türkiye and Yemen, as well as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The ministers recalled an earlier statement issued on December 27, 2025, rejecting Israel’s recognition of the “Somaliland” region, and expressed strong condemnation of the visit carried out on January 6, 2026.

According to the joint statement, the visit constitutes a clear violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia and undermines established international norms and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

The foreign ministers reaffirmed their unwavering support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, while warning that the encouragement of secessionist agendas is unacceptable and risks exacerbating tensions in an already fragile region.

The statement emphasised that respect for international law, non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states and adherence to diplomatic norms are essential for maintaining regional and international stability.

The ministers also commended Somalia’s commitment to peaceful international engagement and constructive diplomacy, and expressed continued support for diplomatic and legal measures taken by Somalia to safeguard its sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability.

The joint statement further stressed that Israel should fully respect Somalia’s sovereignty, national unity and territorial integrity, and called for the immediate revocation of Israel’s recognition of the “Somaliland” region in compliance with international law.