Somaliland seeks Israeli security ties to counter Turkish influence

Somaliland officials are seeking to strengthen security ties with Israel to counter what they describe as a growing threat from Turkey in the Horn of Africa. According to Muhammed Osman Fadal, an advisor to the President of Somaliland, the region is looking for Israeli support, specifically in air defense systems, to offset Turkey’s military presence in Somalia.

The move comes as Turkey expands its influence in the region through military cooperation with Somalia, including the deployment of F-16 fighter jets and the establishment of drone bases. Somaliland officials expressed concern that Turkey’s military assets and its relationship with the Somali government could be used against Somaliland’s territory.

In response, Somaliland is pursuing a strategic partnership with Israel that would encompass technological and logistical support, intelligence exchange, and personnel training. This alignment is viewed as an attempt to balance Turkey’s increasing military, economic, and diplomatic footprint in the area.