Somalia has issued a strong warning to Ethiopia, asserting its readiness to respond to perceived threats related to Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland for Red Sea access. The Somali Defence Minister emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence while highlighting the country’s military preparedness. Tensions have escalated following derogatory comments by the Ethiopian military leader regarding Somalia’s capability to defend itself, with Somalia contemplating support for Ethiopian rebels, thereby complicating the regional stability.
MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a recent escalation of tensions, Somalia has unequivocally expressed its readiness to confront any threats from Ethiopia concerning the controversial pact with Somaliland. Somalia maintains that it will not be intimidated by Ethiopia’s actions, which it claims undermine its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland to access the Red Sea without consulting Mogadishu has angered Somali officials, prompting a stern warning from Somalia’s Defence Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur. Minister Nur stressed that Somalia is prepared to take action against any military provocation from Ethiopia, emphasizing the need for peaceful coexistence between the two nations. “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,” he declared. The tension intensified following remarks made by Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, leader of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), who claimed that the Somali government under President Hassan Sheikh is ineffective in asserting its military capabilities, stating, “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 response to the deteriorating relations, Somalia has indicated it may arm Ethiopian rebels, further alarming the Ethiopian leadership, which believes it has reliable allies within Somalia to counter such efforts. Jula stressed that any attempt by Somalia to support rebel factions would be met with resistance from these allies. His statement reflects a broader concern within Ethiopia regarding stability in the region, as they work towards establishing a military base and port in Somaliland in exchange for formal recognition of the region as an independent state. Somalia’s government has deemed Ethiopia’s actions as “intolerable and unacceptable,” marking a significant point of contention in their bilateral relations.
The tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia are rooted in Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia that seeks recognition and autonomy. This agreement, which purportedly allows Ethiopia access to the Red Sea, has been met with significant opposition from the Somali government, which views it as a violation of its sovereignty. The complex historical relationship between the two nations, shaped by territorial disputes and ethnic affiliations, has led to a precarious security situation in the Horn of Africa. Somalia’s willingness to support rebel groups within Ethiopia highlights the risks of further destabilization in the region.
In summary, Somalia’s confrontational stance towards Ethiopia marks a pivotal moment in their bilateral relationship, driven by perceived threats to its sovereignty and territorial rights. With both countries standing firm in their positions—Somalia advocating for military readiness against Ethiopian provocations and Ethiopia asserting its military preparedness—there looms the potential for heightened conflict unless diplomatic resolutions are pursued earnestly. Ultimately, the region’s stability hinges on the ability of both nations to engage in constructive dialogue and address the underlying issues that have led to this escalation.
Original Source: garoweonline.com
