Fear of War Between Egypt and Israel in Somalia
Natsiv Net
network news has reported that a series of events up until February 2026
indicate a growing rivalry between Cairo and Tel Aviv, which is related to
their increasing interference in Somalia's political and security affairs.
In addition,
Israel’s controversial decision to officially recognize Somaliland on December
26, 2025, was a turning point. The move was strongly condemned by the Federal
Government of Somalia and Egypt, describing it as a violation of Somalia’s
sovereignty.
According to the
report, Cairo sees the recognition as an attempt by Israel to establish a
strategic base in the vital Red Sea and Gulf of Aden waterway. In response, the
report said Egypt has stepped up its troop deployment in Somalia, with an
estimated 10,000 Egyptian soldiers already deployed in the country, while
others are on their way. These troops are part of a new peacekeeping operation
led by the African Union, while others are under a bilateral defense agreement
directly with the Federal Government of Somalia.
On February 11,
2026, Egypt held a large military parade in Cairo, hosted by the President of
the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The Israeli report
described the parade as a “heavy and provocative message,” which it claimed was
indirectly directed at Israel and Ethiopia.
Egypt has
previously announced its strong opposition to Israel's recognition of
Somaliland, describing it as a threat to its national security and the safety
of commercial routes in the Red Sea. Although no Egyptian or Israeli officials
have publicly stated that they are preparing for direct war, this report
highlights the growing tension in the region and how the rivalry between
foreign powers is once again making the Horn of Africa a battlefield.
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