Erdogan: Israel's recognition of Somaliland benefits no one

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that Israel's decision to recognize the Republic of Somaliland provides no benefit to the region or its neighboring countries.

Speaking at a press conference in Addis Ababa on Tuesday, February 17, Erdogan emphasized that Turkey respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the region and does not wish to see new conflicts arise. He said, "Countries in the region should solve their own problems and the Horn of Africa should not become a field of competition for foreign forces."

Somalia had previously severed ties with the United Arab Emirates, accusing it of intervening in Israel's recognition of Somaliland. Following this, Mogadishu signed a defense agreement with Qatar, and Turkey sent fighter jets to its base in the country.

Erdogan remains a vocal critic of Israel and its military actions in Gaza, which he has described as genocide. He has severed all commercial relations with Israel and called for international action against its leaders.