Somalia Opposes Israeli Military Base in Somaliland Amid Regional Tensions

Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has strongly criticized Israel's recognition of Somaliland and the possibility of an Israeli military base in the region. In an interview with Al Jazeera, Mohamud stated that Somalia "will never allow" such a base and is prepared to "confront" any Israeli forces entering the territory. He emphasized that Somalia would defend itself against any foreign military presence, asserting that the establishment of an Israeli base could serve as a platform for attacks on neighboring countries.

The controversy follows Israel's December 2025 decision to recognize Somaliland, a self-declared independent region that Somalia considers part of its sovereign territory. This move has been met with widespread condemnation from Somalia and other nations, who view it as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability.

Somaliland's government has denied allegations that it agreed to host Israeli military facilities or resettle displaced Palestinians in exchange for recognition. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that its engagement with Israel is "purely diplomatic" and conducted "in full respect of international law."

Regional leaders have also expressed concern. Djibouti's President Ismail Omar Guelleh warned against Israel establishing a base in Berbera, highlighting fears that Somaliland's administration might grant extensive concessions to Israel to gain recognition.

The situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa, with Somalia adamant about preserving its territorial integrity amid external influences and internal divisions.