Somalia’s Prime Minister accuses Ethiopia of undermining its territorial integrity by planning to lease coastal territory in Somaliland. This follows Ethiopia’s intention to build a naval base there, leading to heightened tensions and threats from Somalia to expel Ethiopian troops. Ethiopia maintains that its actions are legitimate, while Somalia has sought military support from Egypt as part of maintaining its sovereignty.
On September 28, 2024, Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre formally addressed the United Nations, expressing serious concern regarding Ethiopia’s recent assertion of authority over a coastal segment within the disputed Somaliland region. This announcement follows Ethiopia’s declaration of intent to establish a naval base and commercial port in an area Somalia deems integral to its sovereignty. Prime Minister Barre stated, “Somalia currently faces a serious threat from Ethiopia’s recent actions which flagrantly violate our territorial integrity.” He characterized Ethiopia’s endeavors to annex Somali territory as both “unlawful and unnecessary.” In contrast, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie dismissed these allegations, suggesting that such agreements are commonplace among nations and urging Somalia to avoid inciting hostilities that may distract from its internal issues. Amid rising tensions, Somalia has issued threats to expel Ethiopian forces contributing to an African Union mission combating Al-Shabaab militants, while also securing military support from Egypt. Furthermore, Somalia appears poised to demand the withdrawal of approximately 10,000 Ethiopian troops stationed to manage security along their shared border.
The backdrop of this diplomatic dispute is rooted in Ethiopia’s geographical limitations, as the country is landlocked and has sought unimpeded access to maritime routes. The controversial announcement of leasing territory in Somaliland— a region that has unilaterally declared independence from Somalia since 1991, yet lacks widespread international recognition—has intensified feelings of national sovereignty within Somalia. Prime Minister Barre’s statements underscore the escalating tensions between the two neighbors, particularly in light of Ethiopia’s long-standing military presence in Somalia. Furthermore, this situation is exacerbated by Somalia’s engagement with Egypt for military supplies and alliances, which Ethiopian officials perceive as a direct threat.
In conclusion, the diplomatic rift between Somalia and Ethiopia is escalating as each side takes a firm stance on territorial integrity and sovereignty. Somalia’s accusations of Ethiopia’s actions violating its territorial rights are met with Ethiopian denials, asserting that such actions are not uncommon among nations. The potential expulsion of Ethiopian troops from Somalia and the militarization of relationships with external partners such as Egypt could signify a shift in regional power dynamics. The situation remains critical as both parties navigate these complex geopolitical waters.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
