Amid escalating tensions, Somalia firmly warns Ethiopia against threats related to a controversial agreement with Somaliland. Somali leaders assert their readiness to respond to any aggressive actions from Addis Ababa, which they claim violate their sovereignty. Ethiopia’s military leadership has downplayed Somalia’s capacity for retaliation, while Somalia threatens to support rebels against the Ethiopian government. The situation remains fraught with potential for conflict as both nations assert their positions.
Somalia has issued a firm response to Ethiopia regarding threats associated with a controversial agreement involving Somaliland. The Somali government is adamant that it will not yield to these intimidations and is fully prepared to confront any hostile actions from Addis Ababa, which it perceives as detrimental to both its military and civilian populations, thus undermining prospects for peaceful coexistence. Ethiopia has not expressed regret for actions that Somalia believes violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity, having engaged in an agreement with Somaliland concerning access to the Red Sea, without approval from the Somali capital. Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, the Defence Minister of Somalia, emphasized the country’s readiness to respond decisively to any provocations from Ethiopia, stating, “We want a peaceful and neighborly coexistence between Somalia and Ethiopia. However, if Abiy’s and Jula’s fragile regime cannot embrace peace, let those who stoke the flames of fear and conflict see who is willing to face the fire and consume the raw meat.” This statement was largely directed at Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, the leader of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), who previously claimed that Somalia lacks the capability to launch any military operations against Ethiopia. This assertion has incited considerable anger within Somalia, with Jula suggesting that President Hassan Sheikh cannot effectively defend his position before confronting Ethiopia: “Hassan Sheikh is not capable of fighting. He must first secure Mogadishu before he can even consider confronting us. He should first secure his seat.” In light of increasing tensions, Somalia has communicated its intent to support Ethiopian rebels as a means to destabilize Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government. Jula responded by asserting that Ethiopia has allies within Somalia prepared to counter any insurgent activities, further stating, “If there is someone who receives assistance from foreign forces trying to meddle in our internal issues through supporting rebels and sending us into civil war… they are a traitor.” Ethiopia appears to be optimistic about acquiring a 20-kilometer access road to the Red Sea, aiming to establish a military base and port in return for recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty. Somalia has condemned Ethiopia’s strategic maneuvers as “intolerable and unacceptable.”
The tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have significantly escalated due to Ethiopia’s controversial engagement with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia seeking independence. This engagement has raised concerns regarding Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, as Addis Ababa has not demonstrated regret for its actions. The Somali government perceives the agreement as a provocative move that could destabilize the region further. Historical rivalries and the absence of resolution mechanisms have exacerbated the situation, leading Somali leaders to voice strong resistance to Ethiopian influence in their internal affairs.
The unfolding situation between Somalia and Ethiopia is marked by escalating rhetoric and military posturing, driven by Ethiopia’s actions concerning Somaliland’s sovereignty. While Somalia maintains its stance advocating for peaceful coexistence, it remains resolute in its preparedness to respond to any threats. The statements from both nations notably reflect mutual distrust, which could potentially lead to further conflict if not adequately addressed through diplomatic channels. The international community should take note of these developments, as they may have broader implications for regional stability in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: garoweonline.com
