Somalia has issued a stern warning that its territory must not be used for foreign military operations following reports that Israel is considering establishing a presence in Somaliland, a self-declared republic still regarded by Mogadishu as part of Somalia.
The caution comes amid growing tensions in the Gulf of Aden, a critical maritime route linking the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean, as the Iran-related conflict escalates and Somalia pursues plans to bolster its military, including negotiations to acquire up to 24 JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets from Pakistan.
“Somalia does not want to see its territory pulled into external confrontations or used in ways that could further destabilize an already sensitive region,” said Ali Omar, Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs, in an interview with Al Jazeera on Thursday.
Reports of Israeli military presence in Somaliland
The warning follows reports from Sweden’s public radio Ekot that Israel is exploring the possibility of setting up a military installation near the strategic port of Berbera in Somaliland.
In February, Khadar Hussein Abdi, Somaliland’s minister of the presidency, told AFP that he “could not rule out” allowing Israel to establish a military presence in the region.
In remarks to Bloomberg, Abdi described Somaliland’s pursuit of a “strategic relationship” with Israel, noting that while the possibility of hosting a base had not yet been formally discussed, it “will be analysed at some point.”
Somalia insists only federal government can approve military deals
Mogadishu has expressed concern since Israel recognised Somaliland as independent on December 26, 2025, rejecting suggestions that foreign military agreements could bypass the Somali federal government.
Omar emphasized that the “Federal Government is the only authority empowered to enter into international security or military arrangements on behalf of the country.”
“Any discussions about foreign military facilities on Somali territory that take place outside that framework simply have no legal standing,” he added.
Horn of Africa becomes focus of global strategic competition
While Somaliland seeks international recognition, Somalia has pursued deeper international partnerships, including strengthening ties with the United States. In 2025, Somalia granted the U.S. exclusive access to strategic sites including the Balidogle air base and the ports of Berbera and Bosaso, according to a letter from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Somaliland seeks stronger ties with global powers
Meanwhile, Somaliland has indicated openness to closer cooperation with the U.S. as it continues its campaign for recognition.
In a recent interview, Khadar Hussein Abdi said the territory is willing to offer the United States preferential access to mineral resources and potential military facilities.
“We are willing to give exclusive access to our minerals to the United States,” Abdi said. “Also, we are open to offering military bases to the United States. We believe that we will agree on something with the United States.”