Horn of Africa and Red Sea Security

Israel has formally recognized Somaliland as an independent state, signing a mutual declaration on Dec. 26 with Somaliland’s president that establishes full diplomatic relations and paves the way for embassies, while Somaliland pledges to accede to the Abraham Accords. The move, quickly followed by reported recognition from South Sudan, has prompted questions about whether the United States will follow suit, as President Donald Trump says he is still ‘not ready’ to recognize Somaliland despite earlier comments about considering recognition and using Berbera Port for a U.S. air and sea base opposite Yemen.