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Israel’s Cabinet unanimously endorsed the appointment on Sunday, following Lotem’s nomination by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar on 15 April. The posting marks a significant diplomatic step, with Israel having recognised Somaliland in December 2025.
The new postings include Kosiom Frank Ole Kibelekenya as Ambassador to Copenhagen, Denmark, and Elias Bare Shill as Deputy Ambassador to Mogadishu, Somalia. Ambassador Joseph Warui has been redeployed to Moscow, Russia, while Ambassador Mohammed Hussein Nur is set to take up his position in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The crisis began when South Africa declared Ariel Seidman, Israel’s chargé d'affaires in Pretoria, persona non grata, ordering him to leave within 72 hours.
The Ambassador commended the Kenya Police Service, the Kenya Police FC administration, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), and Sports Kenya for their professionalism and support in hosting Mogadishu City Club at Nyayo National Stadium.