Somalia Accuses Ethiopia of Supplying Arms to Jubaland as Tensions Escalate

Somalia has accused Ethiopia of supplying weapons to Jubaland, escalating tensions in the region. This accusation follows ongoing disputes between the Somali federal government and Jubaland leadership, with Ethiopia alleged to have delivered arms to various regions. The Somali Deputy Information Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to defend against Ethiopian influence, marking the fourth such accusation within a year.

In recent developments, the Somali government has accused Ethiopia of interfering in its internal affairs by allegedly supplying weapons and troops to Jubaland, a regional state in Somalia. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is currently in conflict with Jubaland leader Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe, whose reelection is disputed as unconstitutional. Reports indicate that Ethiopian aircraft have delivered arms to Kismayo, potentially increasing regional tensions in a country that continues to face instability. The Somali Deputy Information Minister, Abdirahman Al-Adala, asserted that the government will protect its sovereignty against what it perceives as Ethiopian aggression. This incident marks the fourth occasion within a year that Somalia has alleged Ethiopian involvement in regional conflicts, raising questions about Ethiopia’s strategic ambitions in the Horn of Africa region.

Ethiopia and Somalia have a complicated relationship shaped by historical grievances and regional power dynamics. Tensions have escalated due to the ongoing instability within Somalia, where various factions vie for control. Specifically, Jubaland’s leader, Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe, has clashed with the federal government, leading to accusations of Ethiopian support for regional authorities. Furthermore, Somalia has raised concerns about Ethiopia’s intentions related to the strategic Red Sea access through Somaliland, which adds a layer of geopolitical complexity to their interactions. Ethiopia’s military presence and alleged arms transfers could further destabilize an already fragile region.

Accusations of Ethiopian military support for Jubaland highlight the persistent volatility in Somalia’s political landscape. As the Somali government seeks to assert its sovereignty, the implications of these allegations raise grave concerns for regional stability. With Ethiopia yet to respond formally to the latest claims, international observers are urged to intervene to prevent further escalation and potential conflict in the Horn of Africa.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com