Houthis

Last week, Israel became the first country to recognize the independence of Somaliland, angering international powers who bemoaned the move at the United Nations Security Council.

The Houthis targeted Riyadh for years until Saudi Arabia was able to secure a kind of ceasefire in Yemen and also reconcile with Iran over the last few years.

"It is not a hostile step toward Somalia, nor does it preclude future dialogue between the parties. Recognition is not an act of defiance. It is an opportunity,” said Israel’s Deputy UN Ambassador.

Israel is the first to recognize Somaliland, but the move may deepen clan divisions, fuel extremism, and damage Israel’s regional standing.

Israel’s recognition of Somaliland breaks a taboo, rewards statehood, and secures strategic gains around the Red Sea crossroads.

The Houthis’ leader also accused Israel of aiming for the “further disintegration and fragmentation of other countries,” and demanded that all of Yemen act against Israel.

Some may see it as creating a new era of international competition in the Horn of Africa - but the real issue is it may appear more of a strategic chessboard than it is.

Yemen's Saudi-led coalition said any military moves by the main southern separatist group, STC, in the eastern province of Hadramout, contrary to de-escalation efforts, will be dealt with.

In a foreign ministry statement, the kingdom described the military operations by Yemen's Southern Transitional Council (STC) as an "unjustified escalation."

Officials from both sides confirmed the deal but offered few details on implementation, leaving observers cautious as they urged follow-through.