Inside Somaliland: The Israel-Turkey clash coming to the Horn of Africa

Somaliland, a self-declared republic recognized only by Israel, finds itself in a potential conflict with Turkey, a strategic ally of the United States in the Horn of Africa. The escalating tensions stem from Israel's recent normalization of relations with Somaliland, which has been widely condemned by the Muslim and Arab world. Officials in Somaliland believe the move was motivated by the need to counter Turkey's growing military influence in the region.

Mohamed Osman Fadal, a senior foreign affairs advisor to Somaliland’s president, stated that the country needs air defense systems against Turkey's build-up of drones and warplanes in Somalia. The officials and analysts in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, are confident that closer security ties with Israel could help counter the Turkish military presence.

In several interviews with Middle East Eye journalist, they emphasized that Somalia, backed by Turkey's military, can be contained through strengthened security ties with Israel.

Mohamed Abdirahman Hassan, the director general of Somaliland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, acknowledged the risks of entering a diplomatic deal with Israel, which is opposed by most Muslim states, except the UAE. However, he expressed pride in partnering with the Israelis, stating that Somaliland has a competent military but lacks essential materials and equipment. He hopes that Israel will provide the necessary support to bolster Somaliland's defense capabilities.