Israel's recognition of Somaliland defies global norms: Foreign Minister

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel has voiced the Maldives' deep concern over Israel's decision to recognize Somaliland, stressing that it violates Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as directly contravening the UN Charter. 

The Minister emphasized that such actions undermine established international norms. 

Minister Khaleel made these remarks in his address at the 22nd Extraordinary Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held yesterday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. 

The meeting was held to discuss recent developments arising from Israel's decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent state. 

In his remarks, the minister emphasized that Israel's moves must be viewed against the backdrop of regional conflict, especially in Palestine. 

He raised concern over Israel's disregard for international law during the ongoing Gaza ceasefire and warned that undermining these norms creates a dangerous precedent for small states like the Maldives, which depend on a rules-based international system to preserve sovereignty and independence. 

The OIC, with 57 Member States, has remained a strong advocate for the Palestinian cause. Maldives has been a member of the OIC since 1976.