Israel surprised everyone by accepting Somaliland as a country, why was the African Union upset? Know the whole matter

News India Live, Digital Desk: Recently Israel has taken a step which has surprised the international community and especially the African Union. Israel has recognized self-declared Somaliland, which separated from Somalia, as an independent country. This decision of Israel has come at a time when most of the countries of the world including the African Union itself do not recognize Somaliland. This is the reason why the African Union has become angry with this step. So what is the case of Somaliland? Actually, this northern area of ​​Somalia, which is called Somaliland, had declared itself a separate and independent country during the civil war that started in Somalia in 1991. Since then, over the past three decades, Somaliland has formed its own government, its own currency and its own security forces. Democratic elections are also held there. However, no country has yet officially recognized it at the international level. Despite this, some countries like Taiwan, UAE have informal relations with Somaliland. Why did Israel take this step? It is believed that Israel has taken this step to fulfill its strategic interests. Israel has the opportunity to access the Horn of Africa for its trade and military purposes. Along with this, it could also be important for Israel’s maritime interests in the Red Sea. Israel may be seeking to counter China’s growing influence in the Middle East and increase its influence in the region along with the United States. The Atlantic Council, an American think-tank, has suggested that the move could give Israel a strategic advantage over the vital waterway of the Red Sea and potentially contribute to stability in the region. Soon after this recognition, there are plans to discuss relations with Somaliland in the Israeli parliament ‘Knesset’. Why is the African Union angry? The African Union’s principle is that the existing borders of the countries of the African continent should be respected, so that new conflicts can be prevented. They fear that if Somaliland is recognized, similar separatist movements could be encouraged in other parts of Africa. The union believes that Somaliland is an integral part of Somalia and considering it as a separate country is against the principles of African unity. It is yet to be seen what effect this step of Israel has on the geopolitics of Africa and the Middle East, but it is certain that this issue will heat up further.