Pakistan, Jan. 24 -- Israel's decision to recognise Somaliland as an independent state has sparked strong reactions across the Muslim world and renewed concerns about the long-term consequences of external involvement in fragile regions.

Read More: Somalia terms Israeli FM visit to Somaliland an 'incursion'

Somaliland, a self-declared republic in northwestern Somalia, declared independence in 1991 but remained unrecognised internationally until Israel's move in December 2025. The region's strategic location near vital maritime routes has led analysts to argue that the recognition is driven by geopolitical considerations rather than legal or historical grounds.

Israeli analysts have suggested that formal ties with Somaliland could open ...