Why is Egypt bolstering ties with Somalia now?

Deutsche Welle

February 14, 2026

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Egypt is strengthening its ties with Somalia, deploying 1,091 troops to Mogadishu in a significant shift from previous bilateral agreements focused solely on military equipment. This move comes as part of the African Union-led peacekeeping mission, AUSSOM, which aims to stabilize Somalia and train its security forces amid ongoing conflicts with extremist groups like al-Shabab and internal clan disputes. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi has emphasized support for Somalia's unity and territorial integrity, reflecting Cairo's strategic interests in securing influence along the Red Sea, a key maritime route. Somalia's political instability is compounded by tensions over Somaliland, a breakaway region that Ethiopia recently sought to gain access to via a controversial memorandum of understanding. This deal, which granted Ethiopia Red Sea access but faced regional condemnation, has raised concerns in Egypt, which views Ethiopia's growing influence as a potential threat. Additionally, Israel's recognition of Somaliland in January 2024 and its ongoing tensions with Gaza have further complicated the regional landscape, with Egypt expressing disapproval of both moves. The Horn of Africa is becoming a focal point for geopolitical competition, with countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates also vying for influence. This strategic race is driven by fears of Ethiopian expansionism, Red Sea access, and the need to counterbalance external actors like Israel, which sees Somaliland as a potential base for regional security operations. The situation is further complicated by instability in neighboring Sudan and Libya, as well as ongoing conflicts in Yemen involving Iran-backed Houthi militias. For readers interested in global politics, this shift highlights the growing competition over critical maritime routes and the delicate balance of power in the Horn of Africa. Egypt's military deployment underscores its strategic priorities, while Somalia's internal

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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/14/2026