In a significant escalation of tensions between Somaliland and Somalia, Somaliland’s Ministry of Defense has condemned an unprovoked attack on pastoralist communities in the Dhuurmadare area of the Sanaag region, attributed to militias backed by the Somali federal government.
The incident has raised alarms not only within Somaliland but also among regional observers, highlighting ongoing struggles for stability and recognition in the Horn of Africa.
According to a press release issued today by the Ministry, the attack was politically motivated and linked to the leadership in Mogadishu. The statement claims, “Intelligence confirms the assault was orchestrated under the directive of Somalia’s Prime Minister, following his politically motivated visit to Las Anod, aimed at inciting unrest within Somaliland’s borders.”
This assertion underscores the Ministry’s belief that such aggression is not merely local skirmishing, but part of a larger agenda to destabilize Somaliland.
The Ministry’s strong language reflects deep-seated concerns about regional peace and sovereignty. It stated, “Such actions are a direct violation of regional peace and an affront to the principles of sovereignty and neighborly relations.”
Somaliland has been keen on establishing itself as a stable entity separate from the political turmoil often associated with Somalia, and these recent provocations threaten to unravel hard-won stability.
Furthermore, the Somaliland government has categorically rejected any external interference, particularly from Somalia, asserting its rights to govern its internal affairs without external meddling.
The Ministry emphasized, “The Republic of Somaliland rejects all forms of external interference in its internal affairs, particularly Somalia’s attempts to undermine Somaliland’s regional stability and obstruct its international engagement.”
This statement signals Somaliland’s intent to uphold its sovereignty and highlights the longstanding tensions that continue to exist between the two territories.
The call for international attention is another critical aspect of the Ministry’s response. In urging the international community and regional partners to take note of the escalating situation, the Somaliland government appears to be seeking support for its cause.
“The Government of Somaliland urges the international community and regional partners to take serious note of this escalation and support measures to de-escalate tensions and uphold regional peace,” the statement read. By raising awareness at the international level, Somaliland hopes to garner diplomatic support that may bolster its quest for recognition as a sovereign state.
As tensions continue to rise in eastern Sanaag and eastern Sool, where Somalia has reportedly used militias to intervene, local stability faces significant jeopardy. Recurrent clashes not only threaten the security of local communities but also complicate regional peace efforts. These developments come at a time when Somaliland is actively seeking international legitimacy and support, an endeavor made increasingly difficult by ongoing hostilities.
In conclusion, the situation between Somaliland and Somalia remains precarious, with the recent attack on pastoralists in Sanaag serving as a stark reminder of the fragile peace in the region.
The response from Somaliland’s Ministry of Defense not only condemns the actions of Somalia-backed militias but also calls for a concerted international effort to uphold peace and stability. The world watches closely as these developments unfold, recognizing the broader implications for the Horn of Africa at large.
