Somalia Will Not Accept Israeli Presence Under Any Circumstances: President Mohamud

Somalia will not accept an Israeli presence under any circumstances and will resist any attempt to involve the country in the Middle East crisis, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has said. In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, he said, “Israel is planning to establish a naval base in Berbera and use the city’s airport. The real goal is to get closer to the Gulf countries and Iran.”

Berbera is a port city on the Gulf of Aden, located in Somaliland, a self-declared republic in northwestern Somalia. Israel recognised Somaliland last year, but Mogadishu considers the territory part of Somalia. Berbera lies across the water from Yemen, near the strategically important Bab al-Mandab Strait. Iran-backed Houthi rebels have previously imposed a blockade on Israel-linked vessels in the area.

Mohamud said, “We will overcome the challenges facing our country because of Israel’s actions.” He also said Israel’s plans are part of the “Greater Israel” project. The term refers to various proposals, many based on biblical interpretations, that call for Israeli control over territory beyond its current borders. Some versions envision territory stretching from the Nile River to the Euphrates.

Israel has not adopted the idea as official policy. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an interview in August 2025 that he identified with the idea. Arab governments condemned his remarks.
The Somali president described Israel as a “destabilising force” that does not comply with international law. He also criticised Tel Aviv’s recognition of Somaliland in December. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has governed itself for more than three decades. Before Israel’s recognition, however, it had not been recognised by any UN member state.

Source: Al Jazeera