Ethiopia plans to maintain its offensive against Al-Shabaab in Somalia to protect prior gains in security, despite rising tensions with the Somali government labeled as ‘hostile.’ Foreign Affairs spokesperson Nebiat Getachew emphasized Ethiopia’s role in regional security, while Somalia has demanded troop withdrawal due to recent territorial agreements with Somaliland that jeopardize its sovereignty. Diplomatic strains might exacerbate Al-Shabaab’s resurgence risks in the region.
The Ethiopian government has announced its intention to persist in its combat against Al-Shabaab militants in Somalia, emphasizing the need to safeguard previous successes against the group. Nebiat Getachew, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, asserted that Ethiopia has been instrumental in mitigating the Al-Shabaab threat and enhancing security within the Horn of Africa. “Al-Shabaab remains a concern for our national security, and efforts to counter it will continue in all circumstances,…” he stated, reaffirming the historical bonds between Ethiopia and Somalia. However, tensions between the two nations have escalated following Somalia’s Defence Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur’s declaration labeling Ethiopia as a ‘hostile’ country, which has complicated Ethiopia’s planned involvement in the upcoming African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia. The Somali government has also requested the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops by December 2024, amidst accusations over violations of its territorial integrity following an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland that purportedly undermined Somalia’s sovereignty.
The ongoing conflict in Somalia has seen Al-Shabaab persistently pose a significant threat to regional stability. Ethiopia’s engagement in combating this threat is rooted in a commitment to secure its national interests and maintain peace within the Horn of Africa. Recent diplomatic tensions arose due to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared state, which has raised concerns in Somalia regarding its national unity and sovereignty. These developments underscore the intricate relationships and historical ties among the countries in the region, dictating their collective and individual security strategies.
Ethiopia’s determination to continue its fight against Al-Shabaab highlights its commitment to safeguarding regional security despite rising tensions with Somalia. With a call for troop withdrawal and allegations of sovereignty infringement, the dynamic between the two nations remains complex. Ultimately, the ability of both Ethiopia and Somalia to navigate their differences while addressing the Al-Shabaab threat will be critical for the stability of the Horn of Africa region.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
