Saudi Arabia in Advanced Talks with Egypt, Somalia for Red Sea Security Alliance

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia is reportedly in advanced discussions to establish a new military and security partnership with Egypt and Somalia. The proposed alliance is primarily focused on enhancing Red Sea security and is seen as a strategic move to curtail the regional influence of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Strategic Realignment in the Red Sea

The initiative aims to foster greater strategic cooperation and deepen military collaboration among the three nations. Sources indicate that Somalian President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected to travel to Saudi Arabia in the near future to finalize the agreement. While a spokesperson for the Somali government confirmed that negotiations are underway, further details have not been publicly disclosed. Official spokespersons for the Saudi and Egyptian governments have not yet commented on the reports.

Escalating Regional Tensions

This development comes amid heightened tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, particularly concerning their differing approaches in Yemen. Recent events include a Saudi order for the UAE to withdraw troops from Yemen and a Saudi bombing of an alleged weapons shipment destined for a UAE-backed separatist group in Mukalla on December 30. These incidents have been described by experts as signaling a 'fundamental shift' in regional dynamics.

Concurrently, Somalia recently annulled all security and port agreements with the UAE. Mogadishu accused Abu Dhabi of violating its sovereignty, citing claims that the UAE facilitated the transfer of a Yemeni separatist leader, Aidarous al-Zubaidi, through Somali territory. Reports suggest that Saudi officials have been encouraging the Somali government to reduce its ties with the UAE.

Focus on Red Sea Security and Cooperation

The Red Sea is a vital maritime corridor, and ensuring its security is a strategic interest for Saudi Arabia. The proposed alliance is expected to involve:

• Joint naval patrols
• Intelligence sharing
• Cooperation on counterterrorism initiatives

Egypt, with its extensive Red Sea coastline, has also been actively expanding its regional alliances, including strengthening its relationship with Somalia. Last year, Egypt signed a separate agreement with Mogadishu aimed at bolstering bilateral relations and military cooperation. The formation of this new bloc could potentially alter the balance of power in the Horn of Africa, a region where various Gulf states have sought influence through economic investments and security partnerships.