Hundreds rally in Somaliland after Trump’s comments

Hundreds of people gathered in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, to celebrate US President Donald Trump's remarks regarding the breakaway region's distinct identity. The rally took place in Kheyriyadda Square, with attendees waving both US and Somaliland flags. They expressed joy at Trump's comments, which they believed underscored Somaliland's unique political reality and its separate status from Somalia.

Trump's statement marks a potential step towards international recognition for Somaliland, according to Ali Hashi, a participant in the rally. Videos and images shared on social media showed hundreds of people celebrating, some of whom had Trump's face emblazoned on their flags. Participants such as Ilhaan Abdirahman called it a major development, stating it could lead to US formal recognition of Somaliland.

Despite the enthusiasm, not everyone agreed with Trump's remarks. University student Mohamed Yasin acknowledged Somaliland's distinct identity but questioned whether changing the name from Somaliland would be a sensible course of action. The rally comes amid hopes that other countries, including the United States, United Arab Emirates, and Ethiopia, might follow Israel's lead in recognizing Somaliland.

However, secession remains controversial and strongly opposed by the African Union and other partners, who fear it could encourage similar movements elsewhere.