Somalia Confirms Talks on Red Sea Security Pact with Saudi Arabia and Egypt

Somalia’s federal government has confirmed the existence of a proposed three-way security agreement with Saudi Arabia and Egypt, aimed at strengthening cooperation on Red Sea security and expanding military collaboration, a government spokesperson said. The agreement, which officials said is still being finalized, focuses on boosting strategic security coordination, deepening military ties and reinforcing the three countries’ joint role in regional stability. … The confirmation comes after Somalia recently canceled security and port agreements with the United Arab Emirates, accusing Abu Dhabi of violating Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Somali government cited the transfer of a leader linked to Yemen’s separatist movement from within Somalia without informing the federal authorities. Officials close to the talks said Saudi Arabia has applied diplomatic pressure on Somalia to scale back its ties with the UAE, amid growing tensions between the two Gulf powers, both members of the OPEC+ alliance. The rift has been fueled by disagreements linked to the war in Yemen and broader regional influence. (Garowe Online)