The leader of Yemen’s Houthis has stated that any Israeli presence in Somaliland will be considered a “military target.” This warning came after Israel officially announced its recognition of Somaliland.
Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, in a statement released by media affiliated with the movement, described Israel’s move as “an aggression against Somalia and Yemen” and “a threat to regional security, especially in the Red Sea.” He emphasized that Houthi armed forces will confront any Israeli presence in the area.
On Friday, Israel announced it recognizes Somaliland as an independent country—a move unprecedented since the region unilaterally declared its separation from Somalia in 1991. Although Somaliland has its own local government, military, currency, and passports, it has not been formally recognized by the international community until now.
Israel’s decision has drawn negative reactions from the African Union, Egypt, Turkey, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The European Union also stressed the need to respect Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Compared to Somalia, Somaliland enjoys relative stability, while Somalia continues to face insecurity and attacks by the al-Shabab group.
