Houthi Leader Warns To 'Target' Any Israeli Presence In Somaliland

Yemen: Yemen's Houthi rebel leaders issued a stark warning, saying any Israeli presence in Somalia's breakaway region of Somaliland would be treated as a "military target." The threat comes after Israel became the first country to formally recognise Somaliland as an independent state, a move that has stirred strong reactions across the region.

What Did Abdulmalik al-Houthi Say?

Abdulmalik al-Houthi, the group's top leader, said in a statement that Israel's recognition of Somaliland was "a hostile act" and poses a threat to regional security.

"We consider any Israeli presence in Somaliland a military target for our armed forces, as it constitutes aggression against Somalia and Yemen, and a threat to the security of the region," said the group's chief, Abdulmalik al-Houthi, according to a statement published by rebel media online.

He accused Israel of undermining Somalia's territorial integrity and warned that Israeli forces or assets in Somaliland could face armed action by Houthi fighters.

Why Is This A Big Deal?

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has lacked international recognition for decades. Its strategic location near the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea has made it a point of interest for foreign governments. Israel's decision to recognise Somaliland on December 26 and to elevate diplomatic relations marked a major shift in international politics.

What Do The Houthis Claim?

In their statement, the Houthis said Israel's move was not just political but carried strategic danger. They claimed that Israel could use Somaliland as a base to expand its reach toward Yemen, Somalia, and across the Red Sea region.

The Houthi chief said that "recognition is a hostile stance targeting Somalia and its African surroundings, as well as Yemen, the Red Sea, and the countries along both shores of the Red Sea."