FoZ founder pledges to force Somaliland recognition on Trump’s desk

HARGEISA (Somaliguardian) – Friends of Zion (FoZ) founder Dr. Mike Evans said he intends to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump about the importance of formally recognizing Somaliland, citing the territory’s friendship with Israel during a special award ceremony held Thursday in Jerusalem, The Jerusalem Post reported on Sunday.

“It’s time to bless all states that bless Israel,” Evans said. “Somaliland has shown genuine friendship toward the Jewish state, and I intend to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump about the importance of formal American recognition of Somaliland.”

Evans made the remarks during a ceremony at the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem, where Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi received the Friends of Zion Award in honor of the opening of Somaliland’s embassy in Jerusalem and the country’s friendship with Israel.

The ceremony brought together diplomats, business leaders, Christian leaders, and other distinguished guests from around the world.

Accepting the award, Abdullahi expressed appreciation for the recognition and highlighted the growing relationship between Somaliland and Israel.

“It is a great honor for me to receive the Friends of Zion Award,” Abdullahi said. “I am deeply moved and grateful for this recognition.”

“This award symbolizes the growing friendship and strengthening ties between Somaliland and Israel. We are committed to further deepening the relationship between our peoples and building a future based on cooperation, mutual respect, and friendship,” he added.

Abdullahi concluded by thanking Evans and the Friends of Zion organization for presenting him with the award.

Evans said the recognition comes at a time when Israel faces significant security and diplomatic challenges, making genuine partnerships especially meaningful.

“At a time when Israel faces complex security and diplomatic challenges, true friendship carries special significance,” Evans said.

He praised Abdullahi’s role in advancing relations with Israel, saying the Somaliland leader had demonstrated “leadership, courage, and vision” in strengthening ties between the two peoples.

“The decision to open an embassy in Jerusalem sends a clear message of friendship, mutual respect, and cooperation,” Evans said.

“On behalf of millions of Friends of Zion supporters around the world, we are proud to present President Abdullahi with the Friends of Zion Award and recognize his commitment to the historic and enduring relationship between the Jewish people and the State of Israel.”

Established by Shimon Peres, the Friends of Zion Award has been presented to approximately 26 world leaders. Previous recipients include U.S. President Donald Trump, former U.S. President George W. Bush, and former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence.

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