Somali MP Accuses Turkey of Exploiting Somalia Amid Rising Israel-Turkey Rivalry

Somali Member of Parliament Abdullahi Hashi Abib has publicly condemned Turkey's expanding influence in Somalia, accusing Ankara of exploiting the country for strategic gains. In an interview with N12 on August 18, 2026, Abib described Turkey's control over key sectors such as fishing, ports, the airport, security forces, and maritime zones, warning that Turkey aims to dominate Somalia. He also highlighted Turkey’s plans to establish another military base and deploy satellites in the region.

Experts note that Turkey’s involvement in Somalia began in 2011 with humanitarian aid during a famine, followed by contracts to manage Mogadishu’s port and airport, and support for rebuilding Somalia’s military. Over the past two years, Turkey has deepened its presence, gaining footholds in oil, fishing industries, security, and space projects. Somalia’s strategic location in the Horn of Africa and proximity to the Red Sea makes it a valuable asset for Turkey’s ambitions to become a regional power and expand its influence across Africa and the Indian Ocean.

Abib, a vocal critic of Turkish interference, claims many Somali parliamentarians accept bribes from Turkey, preventing legislation that could curb Ankara’s control. Shiri Fein-Grossman, CEO of the Israel-Africa Relations Institute, confirms that Abib represents a significant opposition faction against Turkish dominance, which she says is increasingly contested within Somalia.

The Somalia-Turkey dynamic has become intertwined with growing tensions between Israel and Turkey. Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, a breakaway region within Somalia, angered Mogadishu and intensified competition for influence in the Red Sea area. Fein-Grossman emphasized that Israel and Turkey are vying for dominance in this strategically critical maritime corridor. According to CNN reports, Israel has deployed forces in Somalia amid its broader conflict with Iran.

Abib opposes Israel’s recognition of Somaliland but hopes Israel and the U.S. will help counter Turkey’s expanding role. He stated that his call for cooperation with Israel reflects the deep resentment many Somalis feel toward Turkey’s actions in their country.