# Somaliland maritime security and strategic alliances

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/somaliland-maritime-security-role-in-bab-el-mandeb
> Updated: 2026-08-23T06:52:13.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 3.

Somaliland has expressed its intention to play a more active role in maritime security within the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Admiral Ahmed Hari Hariye, commander of Somaliland’s Navy and Coast Guard, stated that the region is prepared to cooperate with international partners through coastal defense, anti-piracy patrols, and intelligence sharing. He emphasized that the priority is to “preserve maritime security and guarantee freedom of navigation in accordance with international maritime laws and conventions.”

Following the sinking of the Indian-flagged vessel MSV Faize Noore Oliya on August 3, 2026, near Hodeidah, Yemen, analysts have suggested that India should increase its engagement with Somaliland. This recommendation cites Somaliland’s strategic location along the Gulf of Aden and historical ties to India, including past monsoon-based trade and the use of the Indian rupee in Berbera.

Expanding its diplomatic reach, Somaliland has proposed the creation of a strategic axis spanning from the Eastern Mediterranean to the Red Sea. This initiative seeks to unite democratic maritime powers, specifically calling on Greece and Cyprus to follow Israel’s lead in officially recognizing Somaliland. The proposed alliance aims to secure the region from the Mediterranean through the Bab el-Mandeb strait. Additionally, Somaliland officials have raised concerns regarding Turkey, alleging that Ankara uses the pro-Turkish government in Mogadishu to legitimize the recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-23: Somaliland seeks strategic axis with Greece, Cyprus, and Israel

Somaliland seeks to join a strategic maritime axis including Greece, Cyprus, and Israel to secure the Eastern Mediterranean and Red Sea regions.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/somaliland-seeks-strategic-axis-with-greece-cyprus-and-israel

### 2026-08-10: India urged to engage Somaliland amid Red Sea instability

Geopolitical instability in the Red Sea and the sinking of an Indian-flagged vessel have prompted calls for India to strengthen strategic ties with Somaliland to secure critical maritime routes.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/india-urged-to-engage-somaliland-amid-red-sea-instability

### 2026-07-26: Somaliland Navy Commits to Securing Bab el‑Mandeb Strait

Somaliland’s naval commander says the region will work with partners to protect the Bab el‑Mandeb Strait, focusing on coastal defence, anti‑piracy and traffic monitoring amid rising Red Sea threats.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/somaliland-navy-commits-to-securing-bab-elmandeb-strait

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Cite as: Somaliland maritime security and strategic alliances. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/somaliland-maritime-security-role-in-bab-el-mandeb