Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has removed Defence Minister Abuldkadir Mohamed Nur following US military pressure over Nur’s ties with Turkey. Nur is reassigned as Minister of Ports as US support appears to slow, amidst concerns regarding military cooperation and Turkish influence in the region. Turkish officials assert the continuation of institutional relations despite this change.
On Sunday, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud dismissed Defence Minister Abuldkadir Mohamed Nur amid pressure from the US military, according to reports from Middle East Eye. Nur has since been appointed as the Minister of Ports as US military support in Somalia’s fight against the al-Shabab group appears to have diminished. Relations between Somalia and Turkey had raised concerns in Washington, particularly due to Nur’s efforts to enhance military and energy cooperation with Turkey, which contrasts with US ties to the United Arab Emirates in the region.
Under Nur’s guidance, in February of the previous year, Somalia and Turkey finalized an extensive agreement encompassing naval, trade, and defense collaboration. Although specific details of this agreement remain confidential, it reportedly grants Turkey the role of securing Somali waters, developing a Somali navy, and aiding in the exploration of energy resources. This deal comes amid concerns regarding Ethiopia’s military dealings with Somaliland.
US military officials expressed their displeasure regarding Nur’s partnership with Turkey and urged Somalia’s government to dismiss him, contributing to a strained relationship with Washington. Discussions regarding access to the February agreement reportedly occurred multiple times throughout the year in response to growing US concerns regarding military coordination and strategic interests in the region. Washington’s dissatisfaction also arose from Turkey’s spaceport plans and recent oil exploration initiatives in Somalia.
Additionally, the deployment of Turkish Bayraktar Akinci armed drones was seen as a significant breaking point, as US officials asserted that failure to remove Nur could jeopardize security cooperation with Somalia against al-Shabab. Earlier this month, the US embassy in Mogadishu issued safety warnings that led to flight cancellations due to potential al-Shabab attacks.
The US has also made financial cuts to Somalia’s elite Danab Special Forces, which has prompted the Somali government to seek alternative funding. Ahmed Abdullahi Sheikh, a former commander, has voiced support for Nur’s removal, viewing it as a favorable change in leadership. In contrast, a Turkish official has minimized the implications of Nur’s departure, asserting that Turkey’s relationship with Somalia is firmly rooted in institutional cooperation rather than individual dynamics. Ankara continues to emphasize its investments in Somalia, ensuring ongoing support amidst evolving political landscapes.
The dismissal of Defence Minister Abuldkadir Mohamed Nur by Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud illustrates the complex interplay of international relations, with significant influence from the US regarding military cooperation. Despite US pressure regarding Nur’s ties with Turkey, Turkish officials maintain that their long-standing relationship with Somalia will remain secure. The evolving political dynamics underscore the importance of strategic partnerships in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
