Simultaneously, Israel’s growing interest in Somaliland is framed as a strategic alliance to bolster security and geopolitical positioning in the Horn of Africa, with potential benefits for both parties. Somaliland’s unique position at the intersection of critical global trade routes, particularly along the Gulf of Aden and near the Bab al-Mandab Strait—which nearly a third of the world’s maritime cargo passes—makes it a highly valuable asset. This strategic location, coupled with hundreds of miles of peaceful coastline, aligns with converging US interests, especially given its proximity to Yemen, where Houthi forces have intensified attacks on shipping lanes. For Israel, recognizing Somaliland offers a chance to enhance national security by establishing a reliable ally in a volatile region, potentially countering threats from terror groups and improving governance across the Horn of Africa.
However, the motivations behind this international attention are not without controversy. Western media has highlighted discussions between Israeli and US officials regarding Somaliland as a possible site for the forced relocation of Gaza’s population, a proposal reportedly rejected by Somaliland, Sudanese, and Somali officials. Critics warn that such plans could transform Somaliland into an open-air prison for Palestinians, armed, trained, and surveilled by foreign powers like the UK, which historically controlled the region as a former British colony. This raises ethical questions about exploiting Somaliland’s sovereignty and its potential to become a pawn in broader imperial strategies.
Beyond relocation schemes, Somaliland’s geopolitical significance is further underscored by regional tensions involving Somalia, Ethiopia, Turkey, Greece, and Egypt, all of whom have vested interests in the tiny state’s future. Israel’s quest for strategic depth in the Horn of Africa through Somaliland is seen as a way to counterbalance adversaries and secure vital maritime routes. Analysts suggest that an infant alliance between Israel and Somaliland could promote mutual security interests, particularly in combating terrorism and stabilizing the region.
As Somaliland draws global attention, several obstacles stand in the way of deepening ties with the US and other powers, including its lack of international recognition and internal political challenges. The convergence of strategic, economic, and humanitarian interests in Somaliland paints a complex picture of a region at a crossroads. While the potential for cooperation offers opportunities for development and security, the specter of foreign domination and exploitation looms large. The international community must tread carefully to ensure that Somaliland’s aspirations for self-determination are not overshadowed by the geopolitical ambitions of more powerful nations. As this story unfolds, the world watches to see whether Somaliland will emerge as a partner or a pawn in this high-stakes game of global influence.
A Brief History of Somaliland
Somaliland, located on the southern coast of the Gulf of Aden in the Horn of Africa, boasts a rich history that stretches back to prehistoric times. Evidence of human habitation dates to the Paleolithic era, with the Doian and Hargeisan cultures flourishing during the Stone Age. The oldest burial customs in the region, found in cemeteries in Somalia, trace back to the 4th millennium BC.
Historically, Somaliland formed part of the ancient “Land of Punt,” known to the Egyptians for trade and resources. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the Isaaq Sultanate emerged as a significant Somali kingdom, ruling parts of modern-day Somaliland and Ethiopia. Established in 1750, it governed territories of the Isaaq clan, descendants of the Banu Hashim, and played a key role in regional dynamics.
During the colonial era, Somaliland fell under British control as the British Somaliland Protectorate, while neighboring areas became Italian Somaliland. This division shaped the region’s modern political boundaries.
1960, Somaliland briefly gained independence before uniting with Italian Somaliland to form the Somali Republic. However, tensions over governance led to conflict, and in 1991, Somaliland declared independence following the collapse of Somalia’s central government.
With Hargeisa as its rebuilt capital, Somaliland has since maintained relative stability compared to south and central Somalia. Despite self-governance for over three decades, its independence remains unrecognized by Mogadishu and the international community, limiting access to global markets.