Israel has appointed Michael Lotem as its first ambassador to Somaliland, months after formally recognizing the breakaway region's independence. The move follows Israel's decision in December to become the first country to recognize Somaliland since it declared autonomy from Somalia in 1991 after a civil war.

Lotem, who has previously served as ambassador to Kenya, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, currently holds the role of roving economic ambassador to Africa. His appointment comes after diplomatic relations were established in December 2025 and a January visit to Somaliland by Israel's foreign minister. Somaliland has also named Mohamed Hagi as its ambassador to Israel.

Somaliland, which has its own currency, passport and army, occupies a strategic position along the Gulf of Aden but has struggled to gain broad international recognition. Israel's outreach has drawn condemnation from Somalia, which described a recent visit by Israel's foreign minister as an unauthorized incursion.