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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
World
Dorian Jones

Turkey expands military footprint in Somalia as regional rivalries intensify

The flags of Israel and Somaliland, seen between the capital city of Hargeisa and the port city of Berbera, Somaliland, 19 February, 2026. AFP - TONY KARUMBA

Turkey’s role in Somalia is under growing scrutiny, with the East African country embroiled in controversy over elections and Israel stepping up efforts to challenge Turkey in the region.

Over the last two years Turkey has ramped up its economic and military presence in Somalia, building on decades of development. The East African country is home to Turkey’s largest overseas military base and this year it bolstered its military presence, deploying F16 fighter jets and tanks.

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