Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei says sovereignty must be respected for all nations. Esmaeil Baghaei issued this statement on April 21 from Tehran. He strongly condemned Israel’s recent diplomatic move. Israel appointed an envoy to a breakaway region called Somaliland. That region remains part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Baghaei described this action as a clear conspiracy. The Israeli move aims to destabilize Islamic countries, he argued. It also seeks to cause division among regional nations. Consequently, Iran views this as a serious provocation. The spokesman added that sovereignty must be respected under international law.
The Iranian official then cited legal violations. This arbitrary action contradicts the UN Charter directly. It also breaks established international law. Furthermore, the move violates Somalia’s sovereignty and independence. It undermines the territorial integrity of an independent nation. Therefore, Tehran calls this step completely unacceptable.
Baghaei reminded the international community of its duties. The United Nations holds responsibility to act. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation must respond as well. Similarly, the African Union cannot remain silent. All countries worldwide should confront this lawlessness. For Iran, sovereignty must be respected without exception.
Somaliland declared autonomy from Somalia in 1991. However, no United Nations member state recognizes it. The African Union continues to support Somalia’s territorial integrity. International law prohibits diplomatic engagement with breakaway regions. Nevertheless, Israel has moved forward with this appointment. This creates a dangerous precedent for other disputed territories.
Analysts see this as part of a broader strategy. Israel seeks new diplomatic footholds in Africa. The move bypasses traditional Somali federal authorities. It also ignores the African Union’s unified position. Consequently, this could encourage other unrecognized entities. Regional stability may face new pressures as a result.
The Iranian spokesman also highlighted expansionist tendencies. Israel’s actions show a pattern of interference. This includes meddling in internal affairs of other countries. Many Islamic nations view this with deep concern. Therefore, a coordinated response becomes necessary. The OIC may hold emergency consultations soon.
Future steps remain uncertain at this stage. Somalia could lodge a formal UN complaint. The African Union might issue a condemnation statement. Similarly, the OIC could call for collective action. Iran will likely raise this issue at multilateral forums. Meanwhile, Israel shows no sign of reversing its decision.
Baghaei ended with a clear call to action. All responsible nations must defend Somalia’s rights. The international legal order depends on such defenses. Allowing this violation would weaken global norms. Thus, a firm response is both necessary and urgent. In conclusion, sovereignty must be respected as a fundamental principle.