Approximately 50 Israeli soldiers have reportedly been deployed to Somaliland following a series of security agreements between the sides, according to reports cited by CNN.

The development comes after Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed that Israel and Somaliland have maintained covert cooperation for several years. During a recent meeting with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, Katz said the two sides had conducted a number of confidential joint activities.

Separate reports cited by CNN also claim that Somaliland has granted Israel access to an additional military facility that could serve as a logistical stop for aircraft operating on long-range missions.

Analysts say the expanding relationship could strengthen Israel’s strategic presence along the Red Sea and provide additional operational flexibility as it confronts ongoing threats from Yemen’s Houthi terrorists.

Somaliland Defense Minister Mohamed Yusuf Ali has denied reports that Israel is operating a military base in the territory. However, he acknowledged that Israel has provided assistance to Somaliland, including training for police and security personnel.

The reported deployment has not been officially confirmed by Israeli authorities.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)