SANA’A — Yemen’s Houthi movement has threatened possible missile attacks against Somaliland if the self-declared republic strengthens relations with Israel, amid growing tensions across the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa.
The warning follows reports of increasing contacts between Somaliland and Israel, including speculation over potential Israeli diplomatic or security cooperation in the port city of Berbera.
Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi previously warned that any Israeli presence in Somaliland would be considered a “military target,” according to regional media reports.
The Iran-aligned group accuses Israel of seeking strategic influence near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a major maritime route linking the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Analysts say tensions could deepen regional rivalries and increase instability in the Horn of Africa.
Reports of expanding Somaliland-Israel ties have drawn criticism from the Somali federal government, which continues to regard Somaliland as part of Somalia despite the region’s longstanding claim of independence.
The Houthis have launched repeated missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and commercial shipping routes since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict, citing solidarity with Palestinians.
No official response was immediately issued by Somaliland authorities regarding the latest Houthi threat.
