Hundreds in Somalia's capital protest Israel's recognition of breakaway territory of Somaliland

Hundreds of demonstrators have gathered in Somalia’s capital to protest Israel’s recognition of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland. The protest on Thursday night took place at Taleh Square in downtown Mogadishu. The crowds condemned Israel’s move as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Demonstrators carried placards rejecting what they described as foreign interference in Somalia’s internal affairs. The rally came two weeks after Israel announced it recognized Somaliland as an independent and sovereign nation and two days after Israel’s foreign minister visited Somaliland capital Hargeisa. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said during his visit that Israel would soon open an embassy and appoint an ambassador.