How Geopolitical Cynicism Feeds Extremism and Fractures the Ummah

The recognition by Israel of Somaliland is far more than a symbolic diplomatic act. In the volatile Horn of Africa, it risks becoming a catalyst for instability, an ideological gift to extremist groups, and a direct threat to Somali unity.

Recent threats issued by figures linked to Al-Shabaab—whether propaganda or genuine intent—highlight a harsh reality:
👉 this recognition provides extremists with a ready-made narrative of foreign interference and occupation.

In a region already weakened by poverty, institutional fragility, and external meddling, such decisions:

  • legitimize conspiracy-driven rhetoric,
  • ease recruitment for armed groups,
  • and radicalize existing tensions.

As always, civilians are the first victims.

A Blatant Double Standard

This move also exposes a striking hypocrisy.
Israel recognizes a secessionist territory in Somalia under the banner of “self-determination,” while simultaneously denying sovereignty to Gaza and expanding illegal settlements in the West Bank.

What is legitimized in Somalia is categorically denied in Palestine.
This contradiction fuels resentment across the Muslim world—resentment that violent actors are quick to exploit.

Fragmentation as Strategy

Somalia today is less a sovereign actor than a geopolitical chessboard, shaped by regional rivalries and foreign agendas. Recognizing Somaliland:

  • deepens territorial fragmentation,
  • weakens the Somali state,
  • and creates fertile ground for terrorism.

This dynamic echoes a long-standing strategic logic often associated with the Oded Yinon Plan, which advocates weakening the region through division and fragmentation. This is not conspiracy, but a cold geopolitical pattern openly discussed by its architects.

Unity as the Only Way Forward

Somalia cannot survive divided.
Only unity—territorial, political, and spiritual, rooted in Islam— can protect it from foreign manipulation and extremist exploitation.

The fate of Somalia is inseparable from that of the Ummah. Fragmentation imposed today will only produce greater chaos tomorrow.