UPDATE: The leader of the Houthi group, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, has issued a grave warning targeting any Israeli presence in Somaliland, labeling it a “military target.” This statement comes just days after Israel officially recognized the breakaway region on October 20, 2023, marking a significant shift in international relations that has been met with widespread condemnation.
In a statement released online on October 22, al-Houthi declared, “We consider any Israeli presence in Somaliland a military target for our armed forces, as it constitutes aggression against Somalia and Yemen, and a threat to the security of the region.” This warning underscores the escalating tensions in the area and highlights the potential for serious ramifications on regional stability.
The recognition by Israel has sparked backlash from key regional players, including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar. Al-Houthi condemned the move as a “hostile stance” that threatens not only Somalia but also the broader African region and the security of the Red Sea. The Houthi leader’s statement indicates a readiness to respond militarily if Israeli activities are perceived as further encroachment.
In response to Israel’s recognition, Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry expressed its full support for the “unity and territorial integrity” of Somalia. The ministry condemned the recognition as an action that entrenches “unilateral secessionist measures” and violates international law. They emphasized their rejection of any attempts to establish “parallel entities” that undermine Somalia’s unity, reiterating support for the legitimate institutions of the Somali state.
The recognition has been described as “another example of the Netanyahu government’s unlawful actions aimed at creating instability at both the regional and global levels.” Analysts warn that Israel’s engagement with Somaliland could enhance its access to the Red Sea, potentially allowing it to launch attacks on Yemen. This comes as Israel has already targeted locations in Yemen since the outbreak of its war on Gaza in October 2023.
The Houthi group, having paused its attacks following a fragile truce related to the conflict in Gaza, now finds its stance heightened in response to this latest development. They have positioned themselves as one of the few regional actors willing to respond militarily to perceived Israeli aggression.
This situation has drawn strong reactions from the African Union, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the European Union, all stressing the importance of upholding Somalia’s sovereignty. The international community is closely monitoring the developments in Somaliland and the broader implications for regional cooperation and peace.
As tensions rise, it remains to be seen how Israel will respond to the warnings from the Houthis and the reactions from its neighboring countries. Analysts suggest that this situation could lead to further destabilization in an already volatile region.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
