Somaliland Partnership Could Bolster Israel's Red Sea Position

Somaliland could become a key strategic partner for Israel and the United States, enhancing their positions in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region, according to an analysis by retired IDF Colonel Amit Yagur published in Maariv. Yagur suggests that the recent visit of Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Ismail Geelle to Washington may herald a new era of relations between the unrecognized republic and the West.

The strategic importance of Somaliland lies in its approximately 850 kilometers of coastline along the Gulf of Aden. Yagur highlights the Port of Berbera as a critical asset, noting that its infrastructure and a nearby airbase could be utilized to strengthen control over maritime routes near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This is particularly significant given the ongoing threats from the Houthis and Iran's growing influence in the region.

Beyond military cooperation, Somaliland presents opportunities as an economic and trade partner. The Port of Berbera is already involved in projects with the UAE, Ethiopia, and India, and its development could create an alternative trade route connecting Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

The region's geopolitical competition also factors in, with Somaliland maintaining ties with Taiwan while China operates a military base in neighboring Djibouti. Strengthening ties with Somaliland could serve as a tool to counter Chinese presence on vital maritime routes.

For Israel, potential cooperation could encompass expanded security and intelligence collaboration, as well as technological assistance in areas such as water desalination, agriculture, renewable energy, and internal security systems. Yagur also posits that Israel could act as a mediator to advance Somaliland's international standing, potentially aiding in its recognition by the U.S.

This analysis follows previous reports that Israel has sent military personnel to Somaliland, indicating a growing engagement aimed at bolstering security along the strategic route.