Speaking to local media, leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi emphasized: "We consider Israel's presence in Somaliland as a military target for our armed forces, because it constitutes an act of aggression against Somalia and Yemen, while threatening regional security.
Mr. al-Houthi also warned that Israel's decision would have serious consequences, saying that the recognition of Somaliland as an "hostile base targeting Somalia and the surrounding African security environment, as well as Yemen, the Red Sea and countries along the Red Sea coast".
The statement was made after Israel on December 19, 2025 officially announced the recognition of Somaliland - the first time this self-proclaimed independent territory has received recognition from a nation, since unilaterally separating from Somalia in 1991.
For decades, Somaliland has pursued internationally recognized goals, possessing a strategic position in the Gulf of Aden, along with its own currency, passports and military forces. Regional analysts believe that getting closer to Somaliland could help Israel expand its access to the Red Sea, thereby strengthening its ability to attack Houthi forces in Yemen.
Israel has repeatedly airstriked targets in Yemen after the Gaza conflict broke out in October 2023, in response to Houthi attacks on Israeli territory - actions that this force declared to show support for the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
The Houthi movement, backed by Iran, has temporarily stopped attacks since the fragile ceasefire in Gaza took effect in October 2025.
Meanwhile, since unilaterally declaring independence, Somaliland has been almost diplomatically isolated, although generally more stable than Somalia - where Islamic militants Al-Shabaab regularly carry out attacks in the capital Mogadishu.
Israel's recognition of Somaliland has also faced criticism from the African Union, Egypt, Turkey, the Gulf Cooperation Council of six countries, as well as the Islamic Cooperation Organization based in Saudi Arabia, while the European Union (EU) affirms that Somalia's sovereignty needs to be respected.
