Large gathering in Somaliland commemorating national unity with flags and festivities.
Somaliland has offered the US exclusive access to its mineral resources, including lithium and coltan, as well as potential military base rights, in exchange for international recognition. The territory, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has remained largely stable despite lacking formal recognition. The offer follows Israel becoming the first country to formally recognize Somaliland’s independence in December. However, Somalia, which views Somaliland as a breakaway region that is still part of its territory, condemned the Israeli move as an attack on its unity. Strategically positioned across the Gulf of Aden from Yemen’s Houthi-controlled territory, Somaliland has significant strategic geographic value. While the US has yet to make a definitive move, President Trump has hinted at openness on the issue.
Al Jazeera