Somalia accused Ethiopian troops of a deadly attack just days after signing a peace deal intended to resolve existing tensions. The conflict erupted at an airstrip in Doolow, causing unspecified casualties among Somali forces while Ethiopian troops intervened to support local politicians. This incident jeopardizes a recently brokered agreement aimed at reconciling the two nations after months of diplomatic disputes.
On Monday, Somalia accused Ethiopian forces of launching a deadly assault on its troops located in the border region of Jubaland, mere days following the signing of a peace agreement intended to alleviate ongoing tensions. According to the Somali Foreign Ministry, Ethiopian military personnel targeted three bases at an airstrip in Doolow, resulting in unspecified casualties among Somali forces.
Notably, Jubaland officials contended that Ethiopian troops were present at the airstrip as part of their operational mission against Islamist insurgents and were responding to protect local politicians. Recent weeks have witnessed escalating clashes between Somalia’s federal forces and Jubaland authorities vying for control over strategic territories. Jubaland’s Security Minister Yusuf Hussein Osman disclosed that the conflict ignited when federal forces were instructed to fire upon an aircraft transporting a Jubaland state delegation, which included legislators and the governor.
Residents reported a firefight that led to the disarmament and injury of some Somali federal forces as they were overwhelmed by Jubaland supporters and Ethiopian forces intervening on behalf of the pro-Jubaland faction. The demonstration of internal strife undermines a recent agreement facilitated by Turkey, which sought to resolve a protracted dispute stemming from Ethiopia’s earlier negotiations with Somaliland for access to Somali coastal resources.
The Ethiopian government has faced criticism over its dealings that Somalia interprets as violations of sovereignty, particularly following an earlier agreement to lease coastal areas for military use. Somalia’s foreign ministry articulated significant concern over the incident, indicating that it threatens the integrity of the Ankara Declaration aimed at fostering peace between the nations.
The conflict between Somalia and Ethiopia has historical roots, often centered around territorial disputes and differing political allegiances among Somalia’s semi-autonomous regions. Recently, relations became particularly strained after Ethiopia entered into an accord with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region within Somalia, rumored to involve land leases for military and commercial purposes. The resultant tensions culminated in a series of skirmishes, prompting mediation efforts from international players, including Turkey. The recent agreement intended to stabilize relations now faces jeopardy as local military engagements occur in Doolow. Jubaland’s semi-autonomous government has frequently clashed with the central Somali government in Mogadishu, further complicating the geopolitical landscape. The involvement of Ethiopian forces, which have been operating within Somali borders for counterinsurgency purposes, represents a significant layer in the ongoing regional dynamics, challenging both national sovereignty and cooperative diplomatic efforts.
The recent clash between Ethiopian and Somali forces in Jubaland highlights the fragility of peace agreements in a region marked by deep-seated conflicts and power struggles. Days after a promising diplomatic accord aimed at resolving tensions, this violent engagement raises questions about the stability of regional relationships and the future of international mediation efforts. Somalia’s firm stance against perceived violations of sovereignty emphasizes the need for constructive dialogue and sustained negotiation to avoid further escalations and ensure collaborative governance.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
