Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud condemned Israel's recognition of Somaliland as a threat to regional stability and a violation of Somalia's sovereignty. Somaliland declared independence in 1991 and has sought international recognition, possessing its own currency, passports, and military. The move by Israel, the first nation to recognize Somaliland, has drawn anger from Somalia and condemnation from various international bodies including the African Union, Egypt, Turkey, and the Gulf Cooperation Council.