Somaliland offers US mineral access, military bases as it seeks deal with Trump

Somaliland offers the US exclusive access to its minerals and potential use of military bases, aiming to strengthen ties and gain recognition. Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland's independence in December 2025, sparking criticism from Somalia and the African Union. Somaliland's strategic location near the Gulf of Aden and its resource potential are key factors in its outreach to the US and Israel.