Somalia won’t accept Israeli presence ‘under any circumstances’: President
News Source
•Sat, 03 Oct 2026 16:25:03 +0000
📰 What Happened
Somalia's president says his country will not accept any Israeli presence. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told Al Jazeera that Israel plans a naval base and airport use in Berbera. He said Somalia will resist being pulled into Middle East crises.
Berbera is a port in Somaliland. Somaliland declared independence but is claimed by Somalia. Israel recognised it last year.
🔍 The Backstory
Berbera sits near the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a key sea route. Houthi fighters in Yemen have attacked ships linked to Israel there. Mohamud said Israel's plans fit the "Greater Israel" idea, which Israel has not made official policy.
The dispute mixes old land claims with new regional rivalry. Somalia wants to keep outside powers out.
🎯 Why It Matters
A new base near a busy shipping lane could raise tensions and affect trade. Many ordinary people in the region already face conflict and high food prices.
Somalia's president says his country will not accept any Israeli presence. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told Al Jazeera that Israel plans a naval base and airport use in Berbera. He said Somalia will resist being pulled into Middle East crises.
Berbera is a port in Somaliland. Somaliland declared independence but is claimed by Somalia. Israel recognised it last year.
Berbera sits near the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a key sea route. Houthi fighters in Yemen have attacked ships linked to Israel there. Mohamud said Israel's plans fit the "Greater Israel" idea, which Israel has not made official policy.
The dispute mixes old land claims with new regional rivalry. Somalia wants to keep outside powers out.
A new base near a busy shipping lane could raise tensions and affect trade. Many ordinary people in the region already face conflict and high food prices.