Somaliland’s defense minister has confirmed that Israel is training its police and military but denied reports of a planned Israeli base in the self-declared republic, dismissing them as rumors. Somaliland, which has operated autonomously since breaking away from Somalia in 1991, is courting Israel with hopes of securing investment in sectors including agriculture, renewable energy, healthcare, and cybersecurity. The partnership could grant Somaliland diplomatic legitimacy, security cooperation, and access to Israeli technology. For Israel, it offers a strategic foothold near Yemen’s Houthi-controlled coastline and Red Sea shipping lanes. Meanwhile, Somalia loses diplomatic ground, as its breakaway region gains legitimacy it previously lacked. The partnership could reshape regional alignments and increase competition for influence around key Red Sea trade routes.
Reuters