*Israel’s pursuit for strategic depth in the Horn of Africa through Somaliland*

- Somaliland, with 460 miles of coastline on the Gulf of Aden, is vital for the defense of the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, through which nearly 33% of global maritime cargo passes.

- Israel sees Somaliland as key for security and countering Houthi threats from Yemen.

- UAE, a key partner, is mediating for Israel’s military base in Somaliland. The UAE invested $101 million to expand Somaliland’s Berbera port and mediates for Israel to establish a military base there.

- UAE-Israel plans for joint military bases in Socotra, Yemen, enhance strategic cooperation.

- Both Israel and the UAE view the Houthis in Yemen as a shared threat, enhancing their strategic partnership in the region.