Rising Houthi clash draws Turkey, Israel into Horn of Africa rivalry

Conflict between Yemen’s Houthi rebels and Saudi Arabia is widening, risking a larger clash that could involve Israel and Turkey in the Horn of Africa. Turkey recently pledged military support to Saudi Arabia and has deployed F-16s and drones to aid Somalia, whose government still claims Somaliland. The self-declared Somaliland, recognized only by Israel, has asked for Israeli air-defence systems, citing a growing Houthi threat from across the Gulf of Aden.

Experts warn that both sides are pulling external powers into a long-standing local dispute, turning it into a potential proxy battleground. While Israeli officials have not responded, analysts expect a favorable reply given the strategic location near the Red Sea. Tensions between Ankara and Jerusalem, already high over Gaza and Lebanon, add a security dilemma that could further destabilize the region.