An Egyptian ship has delivered military equipment to Somalia, worsening tensions with Ethiopia following a recent territorial deal involving Somaliland. Somalia’s Defence Minister praised Egypt’s support amidst regional power shifts, while both Ethiopians and Somaliland expressed concern over the arms proliferation.
An Egyptian naval vessel has recently transported a considerable shipment of military equipment to Somalia, a move that has heightened regional tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia. According to security officials in Mogadishu, this delivery, reported by the Reuters news agency, included essential armaments such as anti-aircraft guns and artillery. Somali Defence Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur expressed gratitude towards Egypt on social media, emphasizing Somalia’s new stance of autonomy in choosing its international relationships. This consignment marks the second delivery from Egypt within a month, coinciding with strained ties between Somalia and Ethiopia, historically seen as an ally of the Somali government amid its struggles against the al-Shabaab militant group. Relations soured further after Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland to lease a portion of its coastline, a decision that enraged Somalia, which claims Somaliland as its territory. The longstanding rivalry between Egypt and Ethiopia, exacerbated by disagreements over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Nile, has led Egypt to pursue closer relations with Somalia. The situation has prompted Somaliland officials to express their worry regarding the potential arms buildup in an already unstable environment. Egypt has advised its citizens in Somaliland to evacuate due to security concerns. Exacerbating these tensions, prior shipments of arms from Egypt to Somalia were also recorded, including a similar delivery in August following a pact signed during a visit by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Cairo. Ethiopia has stated its intent not to remain passive while others potentially destabilize the region. Somali officials have countered with strong rhetoric, pointing to the need for accountability in regional affairs. Moving forward, a significant increase in military presence from both Egypt and Ethiopia is anticipated with the deployment of Egyptian soldiers planned for the forthcoming year, thereby further complicating the regional dynamics.
The current geopolitical climate in the Horn of Africa is characterized by shifting alliances and historical rivalries. Ethiopia and Somalia, though once allies in combatting al-Shabaab, have seen their relations deteriorate due to territorial disputes involving Somaliland, a self-declared republic that lacks international recognition. Egypt’s longstanding rival relationship with Ethiopia over the Nile River’s water resources has led to an opportunistic approach in cultivating ties with Somalia. The proliferation of arms in a fragile region raises concerns about a potential arms race among factions vying for power and influence.
In summary, the recent arms shipment from Egypt to Somalia signals a significant shift in regional alliances, reflecting a growing animosity between Somalia and Ethiopia. The consequences of this militarization may foster increased instability in the Horn of Africa, as both nations prepare to bolster their military capabilities amid rising tensions.
Original Source: www.genocidewatch.com
