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

MOGADISHU, Somalia — 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. Sources familiar with the discussions said President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected to travel to Saudi Arabia in the coming days to help finalize the deal. 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. Saudi Arabia has long expressed political support for Somalia’s territorial unity and its fight against the al-Shabab militant group, though it has not previously provided direct military assistance. If completed, the agreement would mark Saudi Arabia’s first direct involvement in strengthening Somalia’s security and military capacity, with potential implications for the wider Horn of Africa. The Somali government spokesperson confirmed that negotiations are ongoing but declined to provide further details. Officials from Saudi Arabia, its Ministry of Defense, and the Egyptian government did not immediately respond to requests for comment. In recent years, the UAE has expanded its presence across Africa, seeking to increase its economic and political influence and secure a role in strategic ports. Abu Dhabi has repeatedly said it respects Somalia’s territorial integrity, despite periodic disputes with the federal government.