All Horn countries are either unstable or in crisis, and only Somaliland appears ideal for US and Israeli military bases. Once a pragmatic partner, Abu Dhabi is now cast as the central spoiler in Sudan and, by extension, the wider Horn and Gulf region. The RSF is widely perceived as enjoying Emirati backing, while the SAF draws support from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. If Iran falls, then the US and Israel will become highly influential in the Gulf and Horn regions. If the Horn finds peace, then Egypt and Eritrea will have no leverage.

Source: Ethiopian News January 17, 2026 08:30 UTC