A new red sea alliance? Somaliland could become Israel’s strategic partner in Africa

A new JCFA study argues that Somaliland could become a cornerstone of a new regional security architecture linking Israel, the United States, and the Horn of Africa. As Iran expands its network of proxies across the Red Sea through the Houthis, Al-Shabaab, and allied regimes, the authors contend that existing security frameworks have failed to contain Tehran’s growing influence. They propose that Israel take a leading role in building a new coalition centered on intelligence sharing, maritime security, and strategic cooperation.

The study describes Somaliland as a uniquely stable, democratic, and strategically located partner with access to the Port of Berbera and a demonstrated willingness to cooperate with Israel. According to the authors, an Israel-Somaliland partnership could evolve into a broader regional alliance that strengthens maritime security, counters Iranian expansion, protects global trade routes, and extends the spirit of the Abraham Accords into the Horn of Africa.