Ethiopian forces have moved deeper into Somalia amidst the withdrawal of ATMIS troops, deploying over 180 armored vehicles. Somalia has protested these actions, stressing violations of its sovereignty, while international calls for restraint have intensified amid fears of a proxy war involving Ethiopia and Egypt.
In a significant escalation of tensions, Ethiopian military forces have advanced deep into Somalia during the ongoing withdrawal of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Reports indicate that over 180 armored combat vehicles, including 40 tanks, have been deployed to southern Somalia, particularly in the border areas, within the last 48 hours. This troop movement occurs as the deadline for the withdrawal of ATMIS soldiers approaches at the end of this month, with intentions to replace them with the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which Somalia asserts will not include Ethiopian forces.
The situation has been further complicated by Ethiopia’s declaration to maintain its military presence in Somalia, especially in light of rising tensions with Egypt following Egypt’s military establishment in Somalia amid disputes over the Nile dam. Analysts express concern that these developments may herald a proxy conflict involving Ethiopia and Egypt within Somalia.
In response, Somalia’s government has condemned Ethiopia’s military actions as violations of its territorial integrity and sovereignty. A statement from Mogadishu asserted, “The Somali Government condemns Ethiopia’s illegal military actions in Gedo, calling it an affront to Somalia’s sovereignty. Ethiopian forces advancing toward Buulo Haawo were repelled by locals and Somali National Army.”
Furthermore, Somalia has urged the international community, including the United Nations and the African Union, to denounce these provocations, which they argue pose a threat to regional stability. The tensions have been exacerbated by Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland, a separatist region, leading to heightened allegations of Ethiopian interference in Somalia’s domestic affairs despite Turkey’s attempts to mediate dialogue between these nations.
The relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia has long been marked by tension, primarily due to territorial disputes and differing political interests. The current developments are exacerbated by Ethiopia’s strategic military maneuvers amid the withdrawal of African Union forces, signaling potential shifts in power dynamics in the region. Somalia’s objections to Ethiopia’s agreements with Somaliland highlight the sensitive nature of sovereignty and regional stability, particularly in light of Egypt’s increasing influence in Somalia related to the Nile dam issues. The anticipation of potential proxy conflicts looms over the already fragile cooperation and peace efforts in the Horn of Africa.
The escalation of Ethiopian military presence in Somalia during the withdrawal of ATMIS forces raises significant concerns regarding Somalia’s sovereignty and regional security. The strong condemnation from the Somali government emphasizes the urgency of international attention to the ongoing provocations. As tensions escalate, the need for dialogue and a diplomatic resolution becomes increasingly critical to prevent potential conflicts stemming from external influences and territorial disputes.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
