Somalia

MOGADISHU — Somalia has canceled its defense and security agreements with the United Arab Emirates, a move the government said Friday was necessary to protect the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and public safety while keeping broader diplomatic ties intact. Information, Culture and Tourism Minister Daud Aweys Jama said the termination applies strictly to military and security cooperation frameworks between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi. He argued the arrangements had become more harmful than helpful to Somalia’s…

Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan Amid Prolonged Conflict The ongoing civil war in Sudan has caused a large-scale humanitarian crisis, marked by extensive displacement and acute food shortages. This section explores the dire humanitarian conditions and the impact on the population. Conflict between Sudan's army and Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Tens of thousands dead, approximately 11 million displaced. Over 21 million facing acute food insecurity. UN's Condemnation and Call for Action UN Human Rights commissioner…

Escalating Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan's Western Region The humanitarian catastrophe in western Sudan is worsening, with recent attacks leading to significant casualties and displacement. The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has created critical challenges. Over 103 civilians killed and at least 88 wounded in attacks. 18,000 families displaced toward Chad, fleeing violence. Public spaces and civilian institutions destroyed in Tina locality and nearby…

Uganda's Political Tensions Escalate Post-Election Following a disputed election, Uganda faces rising political tensions. The government's crackdown on dissent intensifies, with General Muhoozi Kainerugaba openly threatening opposition leader Bobi Wine. President Yoweri Museveni was re-elected with 71.6% of the vote. Bobi Wine, the opposition leader, won 24%, amidst allegations of electoral fraud. General Kainerugaba's threats have raised concerns about political violence. Military Threats Against Opposition…

ICC Presents Evidence of Repeated War Crimes in Sudan's Darfur Region The International Criminal Court (ICC) has provided substantial evidence of ongoing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Sudan's Darfur region. This report underscores atrocities, including the systematic use of sexual violence, particularly in El Fasher. New evidence highlights war crimes in El Fasher and patterns reminiscent of earlier crises. ICC Deputy Prosecutor addressed the U.N. Security Council, sharing video and satellite data.…

UN mission, UK back Somalia’s plan for inclusive election talks as tensions mount Friday January 23, 2026 MOGADISHU — The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) has welcomed the Somali federal government’s decision to convene a national consultative forum and formally invite the Somali Future Council, a leading opposition alliance, as political tensions rise over the country’s electoral timeline. In a statement Wednesday, the UN mission reaffirmed its support for an inclusive political dialogue…

Somalia approves regional maritime safety pact, gains authority to inspect foreign ships MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Council of Ministers on Thursday approved a regional maritime safety agreement that will allow the country to inspect foreign vessels, enforce international shipping standards and better protect its 3,300-kilometer coastline, marking a significant step in rebuilding oversight of a long-neglected maritime sector. The Cabinet endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding among Port State Control authorities in the Indian…

DOHA, Qatar — Somalia’s defense minister vowed a firm response to any threats against the country’s sovereignty, saying Mogadishu will not accept military or diplomatic actions that undermine its territorial integrity or national dignity. Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, speaking to Al Jazeera Net during a visit to the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) 2026, said the federal government has suspended all agreements with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after what he described as…

MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Council of Ministers on Thursday praised the national army and said more than 130 al-Shabab militants were killed during a 24-hour battle that repelled a major assault on the coastal town of Kudhaa in the Lower Juba region. Officials described the operation as a decisive security victory, saying government troops thwarted what they called a desperate attempt by the al-Qaida-linked group to seize the strategic town. Authorities said the swift response prevented civilian casualties and restored stability…

NAIROBI, Kenya — Puntland State President Said Abdullahi Deni met in Nairobi with diplomats from key international partners to discuss Somalia’s political landscape, his office said, as foreign envoys prepare parallel contacts with regional leaders and opposition figures ahead of proposed national talks. Deni, accompanied by members of his cabinet, held talks with representatives from the United Nations, the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union, according to officials. The meeting comes amid heightened…