(15-02-24) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) — EekadFacts, the Arab region’s premier open-source intelligence platform, on Tuesday, released an in-depth investigation into the United Arab Emirates’ significant military expansion at the Berbera and Bosaso bases in Somalia. This strategic manoeuvre coincides with escalating tensions in the Red Sea, marked by increased Houthi rebel attacks on maritime navigation. The investigation comes at a critical time as the international community, led by the United States, seeks to bolster security in the strategically vital region.
Emirati Bases Undergo Strategic Enhancement
According to the detailed findings by EekadFacts, the UAE has embarked on a rapid enhancement and modernization of its military installations in Berbera and Bosaso. Through satellite imagery analysis, the report documents the swift infrastructure developments at these bases, including new aircraft hangars and upgraded logistics facilities, pinpointed between November 2023 and January 2024. This period of intense military activity highlights the UAE’s response to the heightened regional tensions.
A Direct Air Bridge for Military Logistics
One of the key revelations from the EekadFacts report is the establishment of a direct air bridge, facilitating military logistics from the UAE to these strategic Somali bases. This operation is underscored by the deployment of heavy-lift Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft, tasked with transporting military equipment and supplies. This logistical endeavour underscores the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its military presence in the Horn of Africa, amidst growing regional uncertainties.
Ethiopia’s Strategic Role Unveiled
Further, the investigation sheds light on Ethiopia’s involvement, particularly in the Berbera base operations, signifying a deeper strategic alliance. An agreement that grants Ethiopia a significant stake in the Berbera port development project points to a shared ambition to secure a military and commercial foothold along the critical Gulf of Aden. This strategic partnership progresses despite Somalia’s central government’s objections, illustrating the strategic value the UAE and Ethiopia place on this collaboration.
Potential for a Tripartite Strategic Alliance
EekadFacts also hints at the potential emergence of a strategic alliance involving Israel, given its existing military agreements with Somaliland and the UAE. This alliance could significantly alter the strategic dynamics of the Red Sea corridor, aiming to counter Houthi and Iranian influences. The developments at Berbera and Bosaso are thus positioned as critical for future military operations against regional threats.
Conclusion: A Strategic Pivot in the Red Sea
The comprehensive investigation by EekadFacts into the UAE’s military expansions in Somalia highlights a complex interplay of military, political, and strategic interests amidst rising Red Sea tensions. As the international community monitors these developments, the strategic importance of Berbera and Bosaso becomes increasingly central to the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and the Horn of Africa. This report not only underscores the immediate security implications but also points to the broader geopolitical shifts as alliances form in response to the evolving regional challenges.
#تحقيقات🧵| تطورات مفاجئة وسريعة في قواعد إمارتية على باب المندب، تزامنًا مع تصعيد الحوثيين هجماتهم ضد السفن في البحرالأحمر، وإعلان واشنطن تشكيل قوة للرد عليهم.
🔻في هذا التحقيق المُعمق تُنقب إيكاد عن أسرار التغييرات الأخيرة في قاعدتي بوصاصو وبربرة في الصومال، وكيف تشابكت مع… pic.twitter.com/72BWNkYKFk
— EekadFacts | إيكاد (@EekadFacts) February 13, 2024
