The New Arab published on 1 January 2026 an article titled "Is Somaliland Becoming Israel's Foothold in the Red Sea?"
Israel's recognition of Somaliland gives it unparalleled access to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which the article argues is the primary reason that Israel took this action. It helps Israel monitor commercial shipping, the Houthis in Yemen, and Iran's activities in the region.
