The head of Yemen’s Houthi rebel movement has issued a stark warning to Israel, declaring that any Israeli presence in Somaliland will be regarded as a military target by his forces. The announcement intensifies criticism of Israel’s recent decision to formally recognise the self-declared republic.
In an official statement released through Houthi-affiliated media, Abdel-Malik al-Houthi emphasised that Israel’s recognition of Somaliland amounts to an act of aggression. The group asserts that the move threatens not only Somalia and Yemen but the wider security of the Red Sea region.
“We view any Israeli presence in Somaliland as a military target for our armed forces,” al-Houthi said, describing the recognition as hostile to Somalia and neighbouring countries.
Strategic Concerns in the Red Sea Basin
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has long sought formal international recognition. Israel’s move last Friday marked the first official diplomatic acknowledgement of the breakaway territory.
Located along the Gulf of Aden, Somaliland controls strategically important maritime routes. Analysts believe formal ties with Israel could offer Jerusalem improved access to the Red Sea — a development that could have implications for ongoing regional conflicts.
Following the outbreak of conflict in Gaza in October 2023, Israel has carried out strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, asserting that the rebels’ attacks on Israeli territory were carried out in support of Palestinians. The Houthis have paused their offensive actions since a fragile truce was established in Gaza in October.
Somaliland’s Diplomatic Isolation
Despite maintaining relative internal stability compared with southern Somalia, where al-Shabab remains active, Somaliland has struggled to gain diplomatic legitimacy. It operates its own currency, passport, and armed forces but lacks broad international recognition.
Israel’s diplomatic breakthrough has drawn strong criticism from several international actors. The African Union, Egypt, Turkey, and the Gulf Cooperation Council have all voiced opposition. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, based in Saudi Arabia, also rebuked the decision, while the European Union urged respect for Somalia’s territorial sovereignty.