Israel is making an effort to strengthen its military base in Somaliland. This region is located in northern Somalia, which has not been recognized until now. The main objective of Israel’s nation is to strengthen its security against threats from Yemen-Houthis. They also want to boost its ability to monitor the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Some other nations, such as Russia, India, and the United States also want to build and strengthen their military bases in Somaliland. In contrast, Ethiopia has already agreed to use a naval base and port in Somaliland.

The area where Somaliland is situated is highly strategic. This location has a 460-mile coastline along the Gulf of Aden, which is near various shipping routes. Approximately a third of the world’s cargo adopts this area. This enhances the importance of Somaliland, especially for those that focus on maritime security, anti-piracy measures, and counter-terrorism operations. Even though Somaliland is not officially recognized by most ‌nations, its key position in the region has grabbed international interest. This makes it a crucial partner in securing global trade routes and regional security.

Now the question is why Israel wants to build its military base in Somaliland. This is because of economic and security reasons. Arab nations surround Israel and have the desire to gain a strategic position in Solamilanad to strengthen its defense. Recently Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023. This incident highlights the importance of Israel’s need to increase its security to tackle the threat coming from groups like Houthis in Yemen. 

Somaliland also offers Israel many economic opportunities. The region is on the path of progress, and there are many opportunities for investment in agriculture, energy, and infrastructure. Agriculture is one of the key areas. This region depends on food imports and practices basic farming. Israel has advanced farming technology. By using these technologies, Israel can improve food production in Somaliland. 

Furthermore, Israel could propose a community farming system such as the Kibbutz model. This system would increase Israel’s influence in the region and boost its economy. In this way, both countries ‌will benefit from this partnership. Israel gaining more security and  Somaliland benefiting from economic growth.

In solving regional affairs, the UAE plays one of the important roles. This nation invested a lot in Somaliland and established a military base in the region. These actions by the United Arab Emirates show its commitment to enhancing its influence. Additionally, the UAE recognizes Somaliland and trains its security forces. In this way, the United Arab Emirates has built a strong relationship that has paved the way to fulfill Israel’s goal in the region. 

Reports suggest that the UAE played a major role in helping Israel negotiate the establishment of a military base in Somaliland, in exchange for Israel recognizing Somaliland as an official state. This partnership is primarily focused on reducing Iranian influence in the Horn of Africa. Both the UAE and Israel share the goal of countering Iran’s power in the area. Additionally, the UAE and Israel are reportedly planning to expand their cooperation by setting up a joint military and intelligence facility on Yemen’s Socotra Island, further strengthening their military ties and strategic partnership in the region.

A shared objective of enhancing security and expanding regional influence is demonstrated by the UAE’s participation in Socotra and its alliance with Israel through the Abraham Accords. Israel stands to gain from Somaliland’s recognition as an independent state in many ways. Israel would benefit from this designation in several ways, including increased security, threat response, new economic opportunities, diplomatic relations, and democracy promotion.

Israel’s ties with Somaliland may provide a strategic edge in an area where rivalry for resources and influence is fierce. Israel would be able to expand its influence in the area without having to deal with the difficulties posed by other strong regional actors.