Somalia has warned that reported Israeli plans to establish a military base in Somaliland risk pulling its territory into wider regional conflicts. The breakaway region of Somaliland, which Somalia views as part of its territory, sits across the Gulf of Aden from Yemen. Israel became the first UN member state to recognize Somaliland’s independence last December, deepening ties that officials later suggested could extend to security cooperation. If Israel’s plans come to fruition, Jerusalem would secure a highly strategic military outpost, helping it project power across the Gulf of Aden and extend its reach toward the Houthis, Iran, and Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Somaliland would secure security backing and potential investment tied to defense and infrastructure. For Somalia, however, it would represent a significant blow to its territorial integrity and historical sovereignty claims over the region.
Africanews
