TEL AVIV — Israeli political and security officials are growing apprehensive over what they perceive as Egypt‘s accelerating military and diplomatic presence in Somalia and throughout the Horn of Africa, according to reports from Israeli media.
According to i24 News, which quoted unnamed security officials, Cairo perceives Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland as a strategic development with extensive regional consequences. This shift has reportedly led to increased Egyptian focus on the Horn of Africa to counterbalance the move.
Strategic Rivalry
Security sources cited by the broadcaster indicated that Egypt has recently intensified its political and security backing for the Federal Government of Somalia led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Mogadishu has firmly opposed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s acknowledgment of the self-declared republic, viewing it as a violation of sovereignty.
The Israeli report noted that Cairo’s support aims to strengthen stability in the country and protect Somalia’s territorial integrity. However, it also stems from Cairo’s worry about possible security implications from Israel’s expanding regional footprint.
Red Sea Security and Ethiopia
Israeli security assessments indicate that Cairo interprets the recognition of Somaliland as an Israeli effort to create a strategic position near the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Red Sea. These waterways are crucial to Egypt’s national security, international commerce, and the operation of the Suez Canal.
The report further stated that Egypt’s concerns extend beyond Somalia. There is growing apprehension in Cairo that Israel might enhance its cooperation with Ethiopia. Relations between Egypt and Addis Ababa remain tense due to long-standing conflicts involving Nile waters and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), making any alliance between Israel and Ethiopia a sensitive matter for Egyptian policymakers.
