Israel-Turkey rivalry moves to the Horn of Africa

Israel's recognition of the breakaway state of Somaliland is a strategic move aimed at countering threats from Yemen's Houthis and establishing a military presence in the Horn of Africa. This decision is also viewed as a direct challenge to Turkey's deep political, economic, and military presence in Somalia, escalating the rivalry between the two nations. The move comes amid deteriorating Turkish-Israeli relations over the war in Gaza, the situation in Syria, and Turkey's diplomatic engagement with Hamas. Regional experts anticipate that this recognition will intensify the geopolitical competition between Israel and Turkey for influence in the strategically vital Red Sea region.