President Isaac Herzog welcomed Somaliland’s first-ever ambassador to Israel, Dr. Mohamed Haji, at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem on Monday, calling the moment the beginning of an important new partnership between the two countries.
“I was pleased to welcome this morning the first-ever ambassador of Somaliland to Israel, Dr. Mohamed Haji, who presented me with his credentials,” Herzog said.
Herzog noted that the ceremony also included a symbolic first at the President’s Residence.
“Ambassador Haji was also excited by our orchestra, which played the national anthem of Somaliland for the first time at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem,” he said.
“This new and important partnership between our countries will lead to a future of cooperation in a variety of fields – for the benefit of both our peoples and the entire region,” Herzog added.
Latest step in warming ties
The ceremony marked the latest step in the warming of ties between Israel and Somaliland. Last month, Israel’s cabinet confirmed Michael Lotem as Israel’s first ambassador to Somaliland, following the establishment of official relations between the sides in December 2025. Lotem is currently serving as a non-resident ambassador, reflecting the early phase of diplomatic engagement.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar visited Somaliland in January in what was described as a historic diplomatic visit, and Somaliland announced in February that Haji would serve as its first ambassador to Israel.
The relationship also carries wider strategic significance. Somaliland’s location near the Red Sea and across from Yemen has drawn Israeli interest amid the continued threat posed by the Iran-backed Houthis.
Somaliland officials have said cooperation with Israel could include security ties, intelligence gathering, and technology partnerships, while Netanyahu previously said Israel would seek immediate cooperation in agriculture, health, technology, and the economy.
Shir Perets contributed to this report.
