China Lashes Out at Israel Over Somaliland as Taiwan Cheers the Move

The Chinese Foreign Ministry issued a stern statement on Monday blasting the decision by Jerusalem to recognize the independence of Somaliland.

Beijing expressed strong opposition to characterizing Somaliland as an independent sovereign state and warned against establishing diplomatic relations with the breakaway region.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated that no nation should support internal separatist forces for 'selfish interests'. He further urged Somalia to take action against what he termed separatist activities and collusion with external powers.

China emphasized its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia, positioning itself firmly against the Israeli move.

Taiwan Offers Support

In stark contrast to the response from Beijing, Taiwan became the first state actor to publicly welcome the decision by Israel. The Taiwanese Foreign Ministry released a statement celebrating the development, describing Israel, Taiwan, and Somaliland as partners who share similar democratic values, freedom, and the rule of law.

This development follows reports of growing closeness between Jerusalem and Taipei. Sources indicate that Taiwanese Foreign Minister Francois Wu recently conducted a quiet visit to Israel. additionally, Taiwan has reportedly looked to the Iron Dome system as a model for its own defense strategies, recently unveiling a T Dome system inspired by Israeli technology.

Regional Backlash

Israel recently became the first UN member state to formally recognize Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991. The decision has sparked anger from the government in Mogadishu. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud described the act as a naked invasion and a threat to regional stability. Somali Prime Minister Hamza Barre suggested Israel was seeking a strategic foothold in the Horn of Africa.

The move has also drawn criticism from broader regional bodies. The Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the African Union, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation have all rejected the recognition. The Foreign Ministry of Iran labeled the move malicious.

Strategic Implications

Hebrew media sources have suggested that this recognition could be part of a wider strategy. Reports indicate that following the Somaliland decision, Israel may consider recognizing the Southern Transitional Council in Yemen. The STC is currently backed by the UAE and controls significant territory in southern Yemen. Such a move could potentially foster strategic cooperation along the Red Sea coast to counter threats from Ansarallah forces.