Horn of Africa growing increasingly important in Middle East power plays – analysis

The Horn of Africa is increasingly vital to Middle Eastern strategy, with governments like Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE deepening involvement through military agreements, port investments, and diplomatic ties. Israel's recognition of Somaliland adds a diplomatic dimension with potential security implications due to its location on the Gulf of Aden near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping route. This complex regional order involves cooperation on maritime security, competition for influence, and differing stances on territorial integrity, as seen in Sudan's instability. "The Horn of Africa has emerged as one of the most strategically significant regions in contemporary international politics," according to Dr. Aly Tarek Metwally. Shiri Fein-Grossman noted that the region attracts powers pursuing a broad mix of security, economic, and diplomatic interests, including maritime security, trade, energy, and infrastructure. The UAE's significant investment in Berbera Port in Somaliland, alongside Israel's recognition, highlights the diverse approaches to engagement in this interconnected Red Sea arena.