Ethiopia pledges to continue its fight against Al-Shabaab in Somalia, emphasizing regional security despite rising tensions with Somalia. Somalian officials criticize Ethiopia’s agreements with Somaliland, raising issues of sovereignty. As diplomatic strains grow, the international community expresses concern over the potential resurgence of militant threats in the region.
The government of Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to combat Al-Shabaab in Somalia, emphasizing its responsibility to maintain security in the region. Nebiat Getachew, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Ethiopia has significantly reduced the Al-Shabaab threat and will continue operations to prevent the group from posing a danger to Ethiopian borders. He described the relationship between Ethiopia and Somalia as “inseparable” and noted that efforts will be geared towards fostering regional integration despite recent tensions. Recently, Somalia’s Defence Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, declared Ethiopia a “hostile” nation and opposed its involvement in the upcoming African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), scheduled to commence in January 2025. Minister Nur criticized Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland, suggesting it undermines Somalia’s sovereignty and national unity. In light of these developments, the Somali government has requested the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops by December 2024, accusing them of violating Somalia’s territorial integrity via the agreement that allows Somaliland greater access to the Red Sea. These tensions have resulted in diplomatic strains between Somalia and Ethiopia, triggering concerns from the international community regarding the potential resurgence of Al-Shabaab militants in the Horn of Africa. The evolving political landscape necessitates careful monitoring to ensure both national and regional security remain robust against threats posed by militancy.
The situation between Ethiopia and Somalia has been complex, marked by Ethiopia’s historical military engagements aimed at combating terrorism and promoting regional stability. Al-Shabaab, an Islamist militant group, has been a persistent threat to both nations, leading Ethiopia to intervene militarily at various points in the past. However, recent agreements, particularly Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, have raised questions surrounding Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, thus complicating the bilateral relationship and the broader regional dynamics.
In conclusion, Ethiopia’s determination to confront Al-Shabaab in Somalia highlights the intricate relationship between security and diplomacy in the Horn of Africa. The ongoing tensions, particularly surrounding Ethiopia’s relations with Somaliland and its implications for Somali sovereignty, underscore the need for a collaborative approach to regional security. Continued dialogue and cooperation are essential to mitigate the risks posed by Al-Shabaab and to ensure stability in the region, as both nations navigate these contentious issues.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
