The Horn of Africa is considered as one of the least stable regions of the continent. The Analysis takes into consideration the local, regional and international causes of conflict in this area at the present time. In particular, the role of the US (after the 11th of September 2001), China, Russia and India is thoroughly analysed. The paper suggests that regional factors play the more relevant part in the dynamics of instability in the Horn of Africa and therefore they should be addressed in order to reduce conflicts in the area.