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Erdogan rejects Israel's recognition of Somaliland
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has dismissed Israel's recent acknowledgment of Somaliland's independence, calling it a potential threat to regional security. Speaking in Ethiopia, Erdogan emphasized that the Horn of Africa should resolve its disputes without external interference.
Somaliland's independence claim sparks tensions
Israel became the first nation to formally recognize Somaliland in December, three decades after the territory declared independence from Somalia. Mogadishu, which still claims Somaliland as part of its territory, strongly opposed the move.
Ethiopia's pursuit of sea access complicates matters
Ethiopia, a landlocked nation of over 130 million people, has long sought access to the Red Sea. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed argued that Ethiopia's exclusion from maritime trade routes is unjust and called on Turkey to support diplomatic efforts to secure sea access.
"It is not right for a country with a population of over 130 million to be denied sea access and remain a geographical prisoner for a long time due to the conspiracy of our enemies," Abiy stated.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed
Historical disputes and rising tensions
Ethiopia lost its Red Sea coastline in 1993 when Eritrea gained independence. Since a 2024 port deal with Somaliland collapsed, Abiy has sought control of Eritrea's Assab port, even hinting at potential military action. Erdogan previously mediated a dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia over a proposed port lease in Somaliland.
Regional instability fuels concerns
Fears of renewed conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region, which borders Eritrea, add to the volatility. Eritrean forces fought alongside Ethiopia during the 2020-2022 Tigray war, but shifting alliances now raise concerns about escalating tensions. Reports indicate military buildups near Tigray, cash shortages in local banks, and unpaid civil servant salaries, heightening public frustration.
Somaliland responds to Erdogan's remarks
Somaliland's foreign ministry urged Turkey to avoid exacerbating regional tensions, noting Ankara's growing influence in the Horn of Africa. Erdogan, however, reiterated that regional disputes should be resolved internally, stating, "The Horn of Africa should not be the battlefield of foreign forces."
