Why Israel’s recognition of Somaliland backfired

Al JazeeraCenterEN 7 min read 100% complete by Abdi AynteJanuary 16, 2026 at 12:10 PM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

Israel's recognition of Somaliland in December 2025, a breakaway region of Somalia, has backfired by strengthening Somali unity. The recognition is viewed as a geopolitical move to leverage secessionist movements for strategic advantage in the Horn of Africa and Red Sea corridor, where global powers are competing for influence. Israel aims to weaken central governments, support breakaway regions, and create dependent entities willing to align with it and join the Abraham Accords. This strategy seeks to gain footholds for monitoring rivals, projecting power, and securing maritime routes. However, this approach risks further destabilizing the region and undermining the legitimacy of the Abraham Accords, with Saudi Arabia taking the lead in opposition.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Eritrea 30% China 30% Turkey 40% Gulf countries 40% Mogadishu ×240% Ethiopia 40% Bab al-Mandab Strait 50% Red Sea 50% Horn of Africa ×260% Somalia ×570% Somaliland ×480% Israel ×890%

Keywords

israel recognition 100% somaliland 90% geopolitics 80% somalia 80% secessionist movements 70% territorial integrity 60% horn of africa 60% regional destabilization 50% abraham accords 50%