HARGEISA (Somaliguardian) – Israel could gain a new ally in the Horn of Africa if it chooses to deepen ties with Somaliland, according to a new assessment by the Israeli Institute for National Security Studies (INSS). The report highlights the self-declared republic’s strategic location along the Red Sea, its proximity to Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and its strong interest in cooperation with pro-Western states.
INSS argues that Somaliland’s geography alone could significantly enhance Israel’s ability to counter Houthi activity in the region.
“Today, the distance between Somaliland’s waters and the Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen—such as the port of Hudaydah—is roughly 300 to 500 kilometers… Somaliland’s territory could serve as a forward base for multiple missions: intelligence monitoring of the Houthis and their armament efforts; logistical support for Yemen’s legitimate government in its war against them; and a platform for direct operations against the Houthis—offensive action or the interception of Houthi maritime or UAV attacks,” the report said.
It adds that a “clear analogy can be drawn to Israel’s strong partnership with Azerbaijan,” suggesting Somaliland could provide similar strategic depth against Iranian-backed forces.
Call for Quiet Engagement
The report discusses at length the potential advantages Israel could gain from formal recognition of Somaliland, including access to a pro-Western partner with significant mineral resources and a rare position of stability along the Red Sea. At the same time, INSS warns that premature recognition – without the United States or the United Arab Emirates taking the lead – could expose both parties to diplomatic backlash.
However, it urges Israel to begin laying the groundwork discreetly.
The think tank recommends that Israel begin relations with Somaliland quietly and consider exchanging liaison offices to facilitate cooperation. It says Israel could also take the intermediate step of recognising the Somaliland passport.
A Willing Partner
A major theme of the report is what it describes as Somaliland’s eagerness to align with Israel and other pro-Western powers.
“Beyond its valuable location, no less important is the fact that Somaliland’s government is eager for broad cooperation with pro-Western states – a combination of willingness and capability,” it said.
It contrasts Somaliland’s openness with the region’s geopolitical landscape: an Eritrean government “anti-Western and friendly toward Iran”, a strategically placed but neutral Djibouti, and landlocked Ethiopia with “ambivalent” ties to Washington.
According to INSS, Somaliland has already signalled readiness to deepen security relations.
“Messages from Somaliland indicate that it is prepared to maintain broad security relations with the U.S., including hosting an American base, and even with Israel,” the report noted.
It adds that “Somaliland’s attitude toward Israel is notably positive,” and suggests informal contacts already exist between senior officials. While acknowledging the presence of critical voices, it says “public discourse in the country tends to be pro-Israel”.
Growing Interest in Hargeisa
The analysis comes amid rising Israeli media attention on Somaliland and increasing interest from Western policymakers. Somaliland is often cited for its relative security, regular elections and political stability – conditions largely absent in other parts of Somalia, where most international aid and diplomacy remain concentrated.
With tensions in the Red Sea escalating and regional competition intensifying, the INSS report positions Somaliland as a potentially significant – if politically sensitive – partner for Israel.
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