Somalia Asserts Readiness to Confront Ethiopia Amid Rising Tensions
Somalia has issued a warning to Ethiopia, asserting its readiness to counter any threats related to Ethiopia’s controversial dealings with Somaliland. Somalia’s Defence Minister stated that any aggression would result in severe repercussions, while Ethiopia downplayed Somalia’s military capabilities. The escalating rhetoric reflects a deepening conflict over territorial integrity and regional influence.
MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a firm stance against Ethiopia, Somalia has declared its readiness to respond decisively to any threats arising from tensions over a contentious agreement involving the breakaway region of Somaliland. Somalia’s officials assert that recent actions by Ethiopia compromise Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, specifically relating to Ethiopia’s attempts to seek access to the Red Sea without consulting Mogadishu. Somalia’s Defence Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, emphasized during his remarks that Somalia will not be intimidated by Ethiopia’s posture. He remarked, “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”, His statements come in response to Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, the leader of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), who insinuated Somalia’s incompetence in military matters. Jula was quoted saying that Somali President Hassan Sheikh must first stabilize Mogadishu before attempting to confront Ethiopia. This assertion has further inflamed emotions in Somalia. In light of these rising tensions, Somalia has hinted at the possibility of arming Ethiopian rebels, which Jula categorically denounced, asserting that Ethiopia has supportive allies within Somalia ready to thwart any such endeavors. He characterized supporters of these rebels as “traitors” who risk civil conflict. Ethiopia is pursuing a strategic initiative to gain 20 kilometers of access to the Red Sea to facilitate the development of a military base and port in return for recognizing Somaliland as an independent entity. Somali officials have reacted strongly, labeling Ethiopia’s maneuvers as “intolerable and unacceptable.”
The ongoing conflict between Somalia and Ethiopia primarily stems from Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, a self-declared independent territory that Somalia considers part of its sovereign domain. Ethiopia’s desire for a direct passage to the Red Sea through Somaliland has raised substantial tensions, with Somalia perceiving these actions as violations of its territorial integrity. As regional dynamics evolve, the rhetoric between the two countries has escalated, with military implications and accusations of support for rebel factions adding layers of complexity to this issue. The volatile situation is exacerbated by the historical legacies of conflict and territorial disputes in the Horn of Africa.
In conclusion, the heightened tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia showcase the fragile nature of their relationship and the implications of territorial disputes involving Somaliland. Somalia’s assertive stance against Ethiopian threats underscores a commitment to defend its sovereignty while warning of potential consequences should tensions escalate further. The international community is likely to keep a close watch on this situation as both nations navigate the intricacies of regional politics.
Original Source: garoweonline.com
