"We consider any Israeli presence in Somaliland a military target for our armed forces, as it constitutes an act of aggression against Somalia and Yemen, and a threat to regional security," Abdulmalik al-Houthi, leader of Yemen's Houthi armed group, stated on 28/12/2023.
This warning came after Israel formally recognized Somaliland on 26/12/2023, becoming the first nation to do so since the territory unilaterally declared independence from Somalia in 1991. Somaliland is located in the Horn of Africa, bordering Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Somalia.
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Houthi forces' missiles during a parade in Sanaa, Yemen, 9/2023. Photo: AFP
The Houthi leader indicated that Israel's move would lead to serious consequences, adding that it represents a "hostile stance against Somalia and surrounding African nations, as well as the Red Sea, Yemen, and countries along both shores of the Red Sea."
Somaliland, a territory that has sought international recognition for decades, holds a strategic position in the Gulf of Aden and possesses its own currency, passport, and armed forces. Observers suggest that aligning with Somaliland would provide Israel easier access to the Red Sea, enabling attacks against Houthi forces in Yemen.
Israel has repeatedly struck Houthi targets since the conflict in the Gaza Strip erupted in October 2023, in retaliation for the group's attacks. Houthi forces stated their operations were conducted in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The armed group in Yemen had ceased its attacks following the ceasefire that took effect in the Palestinian territory in October.
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Location of Somaliland. Graphic: Wikimedia
Somaliland has remained diplomatically isolated since its unilateral declaration of independence, despite being considered more stable than Somalia, where the capital Mogadishu frequently faces attacks from Al-Shabaab militants.
Several international bodies have criticized Israel's recognition of Somaliland: the African Union, Egypt, Turkey, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, based in Saudi Arabia. The European Union (EU) also urged respect for Somalia's sovereignty.
Pham Giang (According to AFP)
