Somaliland denies Israeli military presence or base talks

Somaliland's Defense Minister Mohamed Yusef Ali has refuted claims that Israel maintains a military presence or is in negotiations to establish a base within the country. Speaking at a business conference in Tel Aviv, Ali clarified that while Israel is involved in training Somaliland's military and police, reports of base establishment are "rumors."

This statement comes after Israel formally recognized Somaliland as an independent state last December, a move that Somalia strongly condemned. Somaliland, which has maintained effective autonomy since 1991, has been building diplomatic and security ties with Israel. In February, Somaliland's President had indicated a desire for future military cooperation but denied any discussions about Israeli bases.

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There is no Israeli military presence in Somaliland and no talks for Israel to open a base there.

Recent reports suggested Israel had opened an intelligence base in Somaliland, fueling further speculation. The establishment of diplomatic relations in December has led to rapid development in bilateral ties, including Somaliland's decision to base its embassy in Jerusalem. However, the alliance has drawn criticism from a coalition of 14 pro-Palestinian nations, who deem it illegal.

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Israel was training Somaliland's military and police, but called reports that Israel was in negotiations to establish a military base in Somaliland 'rumors.'