In a surprising diplomatic maneuver, Israel has become the first nation to formally recognize Somaliland, a breakaway region in northwest Somalia, sending shockwaves through international political circles.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud described the recognition as "unexpected and strange" during an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, highlighting the unprecedented nature of this geopolitical development.

According to Mohamud, Somaliland has sought secession for over three decades without gaining international recognition. The Somali leader suggested that Israeli recognition came with specific conditions, including potential Palestinian resettlement, establishing a military base on the Gulf of Aden, and joining the Abraham Accords.

Somali intelligence claims that Israel already maintains a covert presence in the region, and this recognition merely formalizes existing arrangements. President Mohamud expressed concerns that Israel's strategic interests extend beyond peaceful intentions, potentially involving control of critical maritime waterways connecting the Red Sea, Gulf, and Gulf of Aden.

The diplomatic move has drawn significant international scrutiny. During a joint news conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Mohamud warned that Israel's recognition could destabilize the Horn of Africa. Most UN Security Council members condemned the decision, with the United States being the sole defender of Israel's action.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but had never received recognition from any UN member state until Israel's recent announcement. The region's strategic location and potential for maritime control appear to be central to Israel's diplomatic calculus.

The broader implications of this recognition remain uncertain, with potential consequences for regional dynamics, Palestinian displacement discussions, and international diplomatic relationships. As tensions continue to simmer, the international community watches closely to understand the full ramifications of this unexpected geopolitical shift.