The Somaliland government raises alarm over Egypt’s heavy weapons supply to the failed government of Mogadishu
The Government of Somaliland has voiced serious concern over Egypt’s supply of heavy weaponry to Somalia, warning that the move threatens the already fragile security of the region.
In an official statement, the Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, “We are deeply alarmed by the transfer of these weapons, particularly as the Mogadishu administration lacks the capacity to effectively manage or safeguard such a significant military cache.”
Somaliland further emphasized that the influx of arms into an unstable environment in the Horn raises the likelihood of an arms race, as various factions could seek to bolster their own stockpiles for protection.
It also expressed heightened worry over the potential for these weapons to fall into the hands of extremist groups like Al-Shabaab and active clan militias, exacerbating violence and instability in Somalia.
“The unchecked proliferation of arms presents a clear risk to regional security, and the consequences could be dire if these weapons end up with terrorist organizations,” Somaliland warned.
In response, it urged the international community to intervene immediately to prevent further escalation.
“The global community must take proactive steps to address these concerns,” the statement reads. “Failure to act could lead to renewed conflict, bloodshed, and a setback in the ongoing efforts to promote peace in the region.”
Despite the growing tensions, Somaliland reiterated its commitment to regional peace and stability. “We remain dedicated to fostering dialogue and cooperation, but immediate action is needed to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control,” the government concluded.
The call to action underscores the precarious balance of power in the Horn of Africa, as stakeholders work to prevent further destabilization.
The complete press release is as follows:
The Government of Somaliland Expresses Deep Concern Over the Recent Supply of Heavy Weapons to Mogadishu Administration.
The Government of the Republic of Somaliland expresses profound concern over the recent supply of heavy weapons to the Mogadishu administration by Egypt which jeopardizes the security of a region already facing complex security challenges
The Government of Somaliland is deeply alarmed by the transfer of these weapons, as the Mogadishu administration currently lacks the capacity to effectively manage or safeguard such a large cache of military equipment. The unchecked proliferation of arms in an already fragile environment heightens the risk of an arms race, with various factions likely seeking to acquire their own stockpiles in order to safeguard their interests. The Government of Somaliland is particularly concerned that these weapons could fall into the hands of extremist groups like Al-Shabaab and other active clan militias, further exacerbating violence and instability in the region.
Given these risks, the Government of the Republic of Somaliland calls on the international community to take immediate and proactive steps to address these growing concerns. Preventive measures are crucial to avoiding a further escalation of tensions, renewed conflicts, and bloodshed and to protect the ongoing efforts to promote peace and security in the region. The stakes are too high for inaction.
The Government of Somaliland remains committed to fostering peace, stability, and constructive dialogue and urges all responsible stakeholders to address these escalating concerns before they spiral out of control. Immediate action is essential to avert a broader conflict and maintain the region’s fragile stability.
