Jeddah: The 22nd Extraordinary Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states convened to address recent developments in the Federal Republic of Somalia following Israel's recognition of 'Somaliland' as an independent state.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Trkiye, Musa Kulaklikaya, presided over the session, emphasizing solidarity with Somalia and denouncing Israel's recognition of Somaliland. He asserted that this unilateral action violates international norms and is seen as a destabilizing move by Israel's government.

Kulaklikaya highlighted the implications of this recognition, describing it as a violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. He also addressed the Palestinian situation, advocating for a strengthened ceasefire and adherence to international resolutions and peace plans for lasting peace and humanitarian aid delivery.

OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha underscored the importance of a unified Islamic stance to support Somalia's territorial integrity and sovereignty, aligning with the OIC Charter and international law. He criticized Israel's actions as a breach of Somalia's sovereignty and a challenge to international consensus.

Somalia's Foreign Minister, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, reiterated Somalia's rejection of actions undermining its sovereignty. He affirmed that Somaliland is part of Somalia and any recognition of it contradicts international law and regional stability.

Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr. Varsen Aghabekian Shahin expressed support for Somalia, condemning Israel's interference. She linked Israel's recognition to broader regional destabilization efforts, affecting Palestinian and Arab states, and violating international principles.

These discussions reflect the OIC's commitment to upholding international law and supporting member states' sovereignty in the face of external challenges.