President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Sunday addressed a joint sitting of Somalia’s Federal Parliament, condemning what he described as a serious violation of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity following remarks he attributed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concerning Somaliland.

In his speech to both chambers, President Hassan said Netanyahu’s alleged statement — which he said amounted to recognition of Somaliland — represented the most significant affront to Somalia in recent times. He said the Federal Government would take all necessary measures to counter what he characterised as an attempt to undermine Somalia’s unity.

He told lawmakers that Somalia’s northern regions remain a domestic issue to be resolved by Somalis, and rejected what he described as external interference aimed at dividing the country. President Hassan reiterated that Somaliland is part of the Federal Republic of Somalia and said the government would convey that position forcefully to the international community.

The President also rejected any proposal that would involve forcibly relocating Palestinians to Somali territory, warning that such a move would deepen instability and would, in his words, be used to facilitate land appropriation in Palestinian areas. He cautioned that the conflict in the Middle East risked being exported to the Horn of Africa, stressing that Somalia is committed to peace, security, and good neighbourly relations, and would not accept actions that could fuel unrest in the region.

Separately, Speaker of the House of the People Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur (Madoobe) echoed the President’s criticism, accusing Netanyahu of violating Somalia’s sovereignty. The Speaker also referenced international legal proceedings involving the Israeli Prime Minister, describing him as a fugitive from justice.

Members of both the House of the People and the Upper House voiced support for strengthening national unity and cohesion, arguing that Somalia should reinforce internal solidarity to guard against foreign interference and efforts that could inflame divisions among Somalis.