Horn of Africa

Somalia's Foreign Minister Abdisalam Ali Dhaay and Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty discussed bilateral relations and regional developments in the Horn of Africa. Both nations reaffirmed their position against recognizing Somaliland.

Somali pirates are resurging with recent hijackings of three merchant vessels off the Horn of Africa. The multinational naval coalition that previously combated piracy has diminished, leaving the threat unaddressed. Piracy had been dormant since 2016 but is now re-emerging.

Ethiopia is emerging as a leader in Africa's digital transformation, leveraging connectivity to drive economic growth, stronger governance, and global competitiveness. The nation's strategic position in the Horn of Africa and its cultural heritage are highlighted alongside its modernization efforts.

Israel deployed 50 soldiers of African heritage to Somaliland following its recognition of the breakaway state as independent, according to a senior Somali official. The move, part of bilateral security cooperation, coincided with Israel's resumption of war with Iran and drew regional condemnation. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed years of secret cooperation with Somaliland.

Somaliland asserts its right to choose diplomatic relationships and opens a new office in Taiwan, despite pressure from Beijing and Mogadishu. The region has maintained effective autonomy since 1991, following its separation from Somalia during the country's civil war.

The article argues that recognizing Somaliland would not bring stability to the Horn of Africa but instead entrench division in Somalia and beyond. It emphasizes the need for reconciliation rather than creating new borders.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's 'imperial vision' is criticized for posing threats to both Ethiopia and the broader Horn of Africa region. The article highlights concerns over his ambitious policies and their potential destabilizing effects.

Ethiopia will hold its seventh national election on June 1, 2026, amid intensifying geopolitical competition among Gulf states and a growing rivalry with Egypt over the Nile River.

The article examines how tensions between Iran and other Gulf powers are escalating proxy conflicts in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa regions. These geopolitical tensions are creating broader instability and security challenges across East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

Three vessels were hijacked off the coast of Somalia in the past week, sparking concerns about a resurgence in piracy in the region. The incidents include the hijacking of the Sward, a dhow, and the Honour 25 motor tanker, tracked by the EU’s Maritime Security Centre Indian Ocean (MSCIO).