Israel Recognizes Somaliland, Provokes Reactions

Israel Recognizes Somaliland as Independent State

The decision by Israel to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, announced at the end of last year, has stirred anger in Somalia and prompted condemnation throughout Africa and the Middle East. Abdel-Malik al-Houthi, the leader of the Houthi group in Yemen, described this move as a "hostile attitude," threatening that any Israeli presence in Somaliland would be considered a military target.

Israeli Foreign Minister Visits Somaliland

Recently, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar visited Somaliland, including a stop at the strategic port of Berbera. After the visit, he stated that security cooperation was on the agenda for discussions. Officials in Somaliland suggested that they are open to the possibility of an Israeli military presence in the territory, a move that could heighten tensions with the Houthi group.

Geopolitical and Strategic Context

The recognition of Somaliland is part of a broader shift in Israel's policy, moving towards establishing ties with alternative actors in light of ongoing conflicts with Iran and its regional allies. Experts believe that this situation reflects Israel's growing concerns regarding the threat posed by the Houthis in the Red Sea region.

Tensions Between Israel and Houthis

During the conflict in Gaza, Israel engaged in exchanges of fire with the Houthis, who have a history of launching rockets and drones at Israeli targets. "Recognizing Somaliland provides Israel with a strategic position near the Houthis in Yemen at a time when Israel needs as many friends as possible," stated Shiri Fein-Grossman, an expert in Israeli-African relations.

Reactions in Somaliland

The majority of the population in Somaliland supports the agreement with Israel, viewing it as an opportunity to become a Western ally. In a context where the regime in Somalia has increased pressure on Somaliland through controls over airspace and port regulations, the leader of the Waddani party stated that the country is in a "state of necessity for official international recognition." However, Israel's recognition was the only response to letters sent to international leaders.