Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has issued a stern warning against Ethiopia’s attempts to assert influence over the Red Sea. Speaking at a press conference alongside Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, El-Sisi made it clear that Egypt will never accept any moves by Ethiopia to establish a strategic foothold along this vital maritime route.
El-Sisi emphasized Egypt’s readiness to expand its political and security engagement in the Horn of Africa, particularly in areas where Ethiopia has historically sought influence. He strongly condemned the controversial agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which grants Ethiopia access to a port in the breakaway region — a deal that has sparked regional tensions and international concern.
“We are fully committed to supporting Somalia’s unity and stability, and we will firmly oppose any attempts to undermine its sovereignty,” El-Sisi declared, reaffirming Egypt’s stance against any shifts in the regional security balance that could threaten the status quo.
The Alamein summit, where the leaders met, marked Egypt’s strategic re-entry into the Horn of Africa’s geopolitical landscape at a time when Ethiopia is actively pursuing a reconfiguration of its regional power and influence.
El-Sisi stressed the strategic importance of the Red Sea and the need for stability across the Horn of Africa. He indirectly criticized Ethiopia’s ambitions to gain maritime influence, suggesting such actions could destabilize the region.
Both presidents reaffirmed their countries’ growing military cooperation, especially under the defense agreement signed in August 2024. This pact includes training and equipping Somali forces to combat terrorist groups and repel both domestic and foreign interference.
Egypt also pledged to contribute troops to the African Union’s upcoming stabilization mission in Somalia. However, Cairo urged the international community to take financial responsibility for the operation to prevent political vacuums that Ethiopia might exploit to advance its regional agenda.
President El-Sisi praised Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s efforts to build inclusive political consensus in Somalia, describing it as critical in countering Ethiopia’s alleged intentions to fragment Somalia for its own strategic gain.
El-Sisi further highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Egypt and Somalia, built on shared history, religion, culture, and mutual interests. He noted that both governments are now working towards a broader strategic partnership encompassing politics, security, economy, and defense.
He concluded by stating that his talks with President Mohamud had focused extensively on securing the Red Sea and stabilizing the Horn of Africa. Egypt, he affirmed, stands fully behind Somalia’s quest to rebuild its state institutions, defeat terrorism, and preserve national unity.
