African regional bodies and several countries have condemned Israel’s decision to recognize Somalia’s breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent state, calling it a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty.

The African Union, IGAD, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation all rejected the move, warning it could destabilize the region and contravene international law.

Somalia’s federal government strongly denounced Israel’s recognition, reiterating that Somaliland remains an integral part of its territory.

Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar also criticized the decision, expressing support for Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity, PBS has reported.

Israel said the recognition was made in the spirit of the Abraham Accords, though its timing and purpose remain unclear.