Somaliland President seeks security cooperation with U.S. and Israel

Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro is seeking to expand security cooperation with the United States and Israel to bolster regional stability and international recognition. During a diplomatic visit to Washington, Irro indicated that discussions are underway with U.S. officials regarding potential security assistance, including training for Somaliland security personnel.

Irro highlighted Somaliland’s strategic location near the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Gulf of Aden, areas critical for maritime security and global shipping. He has proposed partnerships focused on counter-terrorism, maritime safety, and the protection of vessels in the region. The President also presented Berbera, home to a deep-water port and major airport, as a potential logistics and security hub for international partners.

Following Israel’s formal recognition of Somaliland in December 2025, Irro noted that security cooperation with Israel could begin as early as the end of this year. Current collaboration with Israel includes the training of water engineering professionals for desalination projects in Berbera. While Somaliland seeks deeper ties, most of the international community, including the United States, continues to recognize the territory as part of Somalia.