In a strategic push for international recognition, Somaliland has offered the United States access to a military base at the entrance to the Red Sea.
Along with potential critical mineral partnerships.
Why is Somaliland Giving the US A Military Base at the Red Sea?
The unrecognized state, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, aims to secure U.S. support as it positions itself as a valuable geopolitical ally in the Horn of Africa.
Although Washington currently recognizes Somalia’s sovereignty over Somaliland, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi is actively lobbying U.S. policymakers to shift their stance.
The proposal comes amid intensifying U.S.–China competition for influence in Africa, particularly over strategic mineral resources such as rare earth elements, tantalum, and lithium.
By offering military and economic incentives, Somaliland hopes to join other African players competing for global superpower alignment—particularly as the U.S. recalibrates its foreign policy in the region under the shadow of growing Chinese investments.
Somaliland’s port access near Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key global trade chokepoint, further amplifies its strategic value to the U.S. and its allies.
