Israel recognizes Somaliland, wants control over entrance to Red Sea

"Israel has made a decision with far-reaching geopolitical consequences, officially recognizing Somaliland as an independent state, thus opening a new chapter in the struggle for influence in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa.

This move is seen in Tel Aviv primarily as a strategic securing of access to one of the most important maritime routes in the world, in close proximity to Yemen and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, at a time when the region is entering a phase of heightened military and geopolitical tensions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel has officially recognized the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, which is the first such recognition by an internationally recognized state.

For Israel, this move is of particular importance due to Somaliland's strategic location at the entrance to the Red Sea and near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key maritime point for global trade and Israeli security, especially in the context of the conflict with Yemen's Houthis and the wider regional confrontation.

Such a move has provoked sharp condemnations from a number of international actors, including Somalia, the African Union, the EU, the Arab League, and the Russian Federation.

Critics point out that the recognition of Somaliland is primarily seen as a geopolitical instrument for Israel to strengthen its presence in the Red Sea, approach Yemen, and gain influence over the Horn of Africa, rather than as an act based on the principles of international law and the territorial integrity of Somalia"

Igor Vladić