Egypt has broadened its military mission in Somalia after Israel's recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland, with the protection of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's government now a top objective, sources have told The National.
They said Egypt's latest move in the Horn of Africa nation reflected fears that Israel's recognition of Somaliland last month could give it a foothold in a region that Cairo sees as vital to its national security.
The Egyptian government is also alarmed that Israel could use any influence it gains in Somaliland to forge an axis with Ethiopia, another Horn of Africa nation, with which Cairo has been locked in a years-long dispute over Nile waters, said the sources, who are briefed on Egypt's policies there.
Military analyst Samir Ragheb, a retired army brigadier, said: "Somaliland is perhaps the most strategic part of Somalia. It can potentially be used to hinder our [Egypt's] access to the Red Sea through its southern mouth," referring to the region that sits on the Gu
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