Mogadishu — Somalia has stepped up diplomatic efforts to strengthen security coordination with Saudi Arabia and Egypt, focusing on the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb corridor, amid heightened regional tensions triggered by Israel’s reported position on Somaliland.

Speaking in Mogadishu, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Omar (Ali Bal’ad) stated that Somalia is pursuing a structured and sustainable security framework with Riyadh and Cairo aimed at safeguarding strategic maritime routes and reinforcing regional stability. He stressed that the initiative reflects Somalia’s sovereign right to protect its national interests and territorial integrity through lawful regional partnerships.

Ali Bal’ad noted that the reported Israeli move regarding Somaliland is not an isolated political development, but one that carries broader strategic implications for the Horn of Africa and key global trade routes stretching from Yemen to Sudan. He emphasized that Somalia is addressing these developments through diplomacy grounded in international law and regional cooperation.

The state minister also highlighted that Somalia’s engagement with Saudi Arabia and Egypt aligns with the principled positions of Arab and regional states that have consistently rejected any recognition undermining Somalia’s unity. He pointed to Saudi Arabia’s clear stance in opposing such moves as an example of coordinated regional responsibility.

Somali officials underscored that ongoing consultations with regional partners are focused on maritime security, prevention of external interference, and the protection of critical waterways, as Somalia continues to position itself as a key stakeholder in Red Sea stability and Horn of Africa security.