HARGEISA – Somaliland’s Navy and Coast Guard Commander, Admiral Ahmed Hari Hariye, says Somaliland is ready to work with regional and international partners to help secure the Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes.

He said Somaliland is committed to protecting commercial shipping, combating piracy, monitoring maritime traffic, and strengthening maritime security cooperation while respecting international law. However, he emphasized that Somaliland’s role would focus on coastal defence and security cooperation rather than direct military operations.

The statement comes as security concerns in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden continue to grow following attacks on commercial vessels. Somaliland argues that its strategic location and the Port of Berbera position it to play a greater role in safeguarding international shipping and regional maritime security.

The statement reflects Somaliland’s growing ambition to position itself as a responsible maritime security partner in one of the world’s most strategically important regions. As threats to international shipping increase, Somaliland appears to be presenting itself not only as a stable coastal territory but also as a potential contributor to protecting global trade routes.

Berbera’s geographic location provides Somaliland with a strategic advantage that few regional actors possess. By emphasizing cooperation in areas such as coastal surveillance, anti-piracy operations, intelligence sharing, and maritime law enforcement, Somaliland is seeking to demonstrate that it can provide practical security contributions rather than simply pursue diplomatic recognition.

At the same time, the government’s careful messaging avoids suggesting direct involvement in wider regional military conflicts. Instead, Somaliland portrays its role as one focused on protecting navigation, combating maritime crime, and supporting international cooperation—an approach that could make it a more attractive security partner for countries seeking stability in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden without becoming entangled in broader Middle East conflicts.

If expanded through partnerships, training, and investment in maritime capabilities, Somaliland’s participation could further strengthen its international profile and reinforce its argument that it is capable of acting as a reliable contributor to regional and global security.