Yemen’s Houthi leadership has issued a direct military threat against Israel following its controversial recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland. Abdul Malik al-Houthi, the group’s leader, declared in a Sunday statement that any Israeli presence in Somaliland would be considered “a military target for our armed forces,” characterizing the move as aggression against both Somalia and Yemen that threatens regional security.
The warning comes after Israel became the first nation to formally recognize Somaliland’s independence on Friday, a decision that has triggered international backlash. The self-declared republic separated from Somalia in 1991 but has never gained widespread international recognition despite its strategic position on the Gulf of Aden.
Regional powers including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar have joined in condemning Israel’s decision. Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry affirmed its full support for Somalia’s “unity and territorial integrity,” rejecting what it called “unilateral secessionist measures that violate international law.” Turkey’s government accused Israel of pursuing “expansionist policies” and creating regional instability, while Qatar added its official disapproval on Saturday.
Analysts suggest Israel’s engagement with Somaliland could provide expanded access to the Red Sea, potentially enabling military operations against Yemen. Since October 2023, Israel has repeatedly targeted locations in Yemen amid its ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Houthis, who have been among the few regional actors militarily responding to the Gaza situation, had previously paused attacks following a fragile truce.
The African Union, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and European Union have all expressed concerns, with the EU emphasizing that Somalia’s sovereignty should be upheld. The widespread condemnation highlights the complex geopolitical implications of Israel’s recognition, which threatens to further destabilize an already volatile region.