Washington (Kaab TV) – During a discussion focused specifically on maritime issues and security in the Horn of Africa, held by the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Ted Cruz stated that Somaliland is important to U.S. maritime strategy and efforts to counter security threats in the region.
Speaking at the session, Senator Cruz noted that Somaliland’s geographic location—situated along the Gulf of Aden, a key corridor for global trade—makes it a strategic area that cannot be ignored.
“Somaliland is an important partner for U.S. maritime security in Africa… It is strategically located and plays a role in the fight against terrorism and piracy,” Cruz said.
He also pointed out that Somaliland maintains close relations with U.S. allies Taiwan and Israel, at a time when China has increased its political and military activities across Africa.
The senator added that Somaliland has offered Washington military cooperation agreements and partnerships in critical minerals, which he said could significantly help the United States reduce China’s influence and enhance security in the Red Sea.
Cruz further stated that he recently sent a letter to the U.S. President, urging consideration of recognizing Somaliland, describing it as one of the avenues through which U.S. strategic objectives in the region could be achieved.
Meanwhile, Margaret Nardi, Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), said that although INL does not currently implement direct programs in Somaliland, the bureau is open to conducting assessments and exploring future opportunities.
“We are prepared to conduct a needs assessment and work together to establish Somaliland’s priorities when it comes to maritime security and law enforcement,” she said in response to Cruz.
The discussion marked one of the most explicit official acknowledgments of Somaliland’s role in U.S. regional security strategy, amid intensifying competition over the Red Sea and Indian Ocean maritime routes.
The Senate briefing comes at a time of rising geopolitical tensions in the region, as major powers compete for political, economic, and military influence over critical ports and sea lanes in East Africa.