By Asha Elmi - Reporter
United States, 3 January 2026 — Somalia’s Ambassador to the United Nations said on Friday that U.S. policy regarding Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity has not changed, dismissing reports on social media alleging that Washington was supportive of Israel's recognition of Somaliland.
Abukar Dahir Osman, Somalia’s permanent representative to the UN and president of the Security Council for January, made the remarks during a press briefing in New York on the Council’s program of work for the month.
When asked about statements circulating on social media, including those attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump criticizing Somalis and reports suggesting U.S. awareness or support of Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, Osman dismissed the reports as unverified.
“Social media has created an environment where everyone sees themselves as an expert,” Osman said. “I consider these matters personal, and I do not wish to respond.”
He added that the U.S. deputy permanent representative had it made clear in a Security Council meeting that Washington continues to support Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and is not engaged in any negotiations, contrary to social media reports.
More from Somalia
“I do not see any change in U.S. policy,” Osman said, noting that he would not respond to tweets or social media commentary.
President Trump has in the recent past criticized the Somali community in the United States and Minnesota Congresswomen Ilhan Omar, accusing them of being anti-America and contributing nothing to the country's development.
Despite Trump's criticisms, the United States has consistently supported Somalia’s territorial integrity and its fight against terrorism. Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991, has not received formal recognition from the U.S. or the United Nations.
Discover more Somalia updates
