CAIRO – In a statement that could signify a potential shift in the geopolitical dynamics of the Horn of Africa, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi made it clear on Sunday that Egypt will not tolerate any threats to the stability and security of Somalia. This declaration comes in the wake of Ethiopia’s announcement that it is considering the recognition of Somaliland’s claim to independence, a move that could grant Ethiopia access to a strategic sea port. President Sisi’s remarks are the most assertive Egypt has made on this issue, reflecting the gravity with which Cairo views the prospect of changes to the political landscape in a region already beset by complexities. The statement underscores a deepening of the already strained relations between Egypt and Ethiopia, which have been at odds over various issues, most notably the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which Egypt fears will significantly reduce its share of the Nile waters. The Horn of Africa is a region fraught with historical conflicts, political instability, and overlapping claims of sovereignty. Somaliland, a self-declared state that split from Somalia in 1991, has sought international recognition for its independence but has been met with limited success. Ethiopia’s suggestion that it might recognize Somaliland, and thereby secure a corridor to the Red Sea, represents a significant shift in regional alliances and has the potential to alter the strategic balance. Egypt’s interest in the security of Somalia is multifaceted. On one hand, Cairo has traditionally sought to maintain good relations with countries along the Nile basin to secure its water interests. On the other hand, Egypt has a vested interest in the stability of the Horn of Africa, given its proximity to the Suez Canal, a vital maritime route for global commerce. Furthermore, the emergence of new alliances or the redrawing of boundaries in the Horn of Africa could introduce additional security challenges for Egypt and other regional players. President Sisi’s statement could be interpreted as a signal that Egypt is prepared to take a more active role in the affairs of the Horn of Africa to safeguard its interests. While the specifics of how Egypt might respond to any developments remain unclear, the country’s leadership has historically been keen to engage diplomatically, economically, and at times militarily to maintain a balance of power that aligns with its national strategic objectives. The broader implications of President Sisi’s remarks are subject to speculation. However, experts suggest that they could lead to increased tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia, potentially impacting negotiations over the GERD and other bilateral issues. Moreover, any Egyptian involvement in the Horn of Africa dispute could have repercussions for the delicate internal politics of Somalia and Somaliland, as well as for the broader international community’s approach to the region.