Somalia’s decision to dismantle its long-standing agreements with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) marks a seismic shift in the Horn of Africa’s diplomatic landscape. Somalia’s fragile federal system grants significant autonomy to regional states like Puntland and Jubaland, while Somaliland maintains a stance of total independence. Opening a second front against regional administrations would risk a total fracture of the state along clan lines. In 2018, UAE officials claimed their arrangements in Berbera carried the “blessing” of the Somali federal government. For an Israeli administration facing domestic turmoil and regional isolation, a foothold in the Horn of Africa offers a strategic diversion.

Source: Daily News Egypt January 31, 2026 19:03 UTC