Somalia and Iraq Near Confidential Security Agreement Amid Iran’s IRGC Expansion Plans in East Africa

A New Diplomatic Chapter: Somalia’s Engagement with Iraq

MOGADISHU, Somalia (AXADLE) – In a significant diplomatic maneuver, Somalia is poised to dispatch a high-level delegation to Iraq. This move, however, is shrouded in controversy, as whispers of a clandestine security agreement echo through the halls of intelligence circles. Could this signal an expansion of Iran’s IRGC into the heart of East Africa?

The Somali delegation is set to touch down in Baghdad under the pretext of the 34th Arab League Summit. It’s a stage where the world watches, but what goes unnoticed is often most telling…

The team will be spearheaded by 65-year-old Abdullahi Mohamed Ali “Sanbaloolshe,” the astute director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). Sanbaloolshe, bridging borders with his Somali-British identity, is reportedly scheduled to confer with influential Iraqi Shia militia leaders and officials aligned with the IRGC’s Quds Force. This force, under the tight grip of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, executes Iran’s foreign operations with precision and purpose.

In the words of a well-placed Somali intelligence source, who, opting for anonymity, disclosed that “the Somali officials have expectations of cementing an agreement with Iraq.” This anticipation reportedly stems from the recent cordial visit by Iraqi Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari to Mogadishu.

Why does such a formal agreement matter? “This pact,” claims our source, “includes a confidential annex that might usher in cooperation with the IRGC.” The implications are as intriguing as they are complex.

Al-Shammari, with his stature as a seasoned officer, engaged with Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre earlier this year. A dialogue underscored by brotherhood, the focus honed in on security and counterterrorism—echoes of war experiences shared and lessons learned.

PHOTO: Iraqi Interior Minister al-Shammari engaged in talks with Somali PM Hamza Abdi Barre in Mogadishu. | 24 April, 2025.

Former Foreign Minister, now Defense Minister Ahmed Fiqi, confirmed the potential benefits of learning from Iraq’s anti-ISIS operations. Could Somalia leverage this knowledge in its own turbulent regions? Only time will tell.

Counter-ISIS efforts, predominantly orchestrated by Puntland, have sidestepped Mogadishu’s involvement, fueling questions about centralized control versus regional autonomy.

Interestingly, past months have seen Iranian-backed Houthi militias forge links with Somalia’s al-Shabaab. Our July reports unearthed this growing nexus, sparking speculations of Iran’s proxy ambitions extending deeper into Africa.

Diverse sources suggest clandestine meetings in Baghdad with the IRGC’s Quds Force—famed not just for its strategic prowess but also its influence over groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis.

Iran’s curiosity, driven by intel on activities in Bosaso, triggered widespread concern. A radar destined to monitor Houthi missile trajectories hints at a broader geopolitical chess game being played.

Could Somalia become an unwitting player in this high-stakes international theater? For now, Puntland’s allegiance lies with entities like the UAE and AFRICOM, leaving Mogadishu to ponder its strategy.

Silent as the river runs deep, NISA’s external relations remain tight-lipped on Baghdad talks. Yet, Hamza Haadow from Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs offered a glimpse—”Our cooperation with Iraq rests mainly on security and counterterrorism,” he shared, avoiding the IRGC aspect.

The internal tug-of-war intensifies as Puntland and North Western State of Somalia lean towards Western allies. Their moves, understandably, have irked the Federal Government.

A source reflects, “While governance in Puntland and North Western State of Somalia operates autonomously, Prime Minister Hamza’s concerns about Israeli activities were palpable, especially given recent Middle East turmoil.”

As Somalia inches closer to solidifying its bond with Iraq, we ponder: Are we witnessing a new narrative for IRGC operations in East Africa? Fresh challenges loom, with peace and stability hanging in the balance.

Contemplating the IRGC’s footprint beyond its borders, one can’t help but recall John le Carré’s words, “We are not makers of history. We are made by history.” Could Somalia’s next chapter redefine the regional security landscape?

PHOTO: The IRGC’s expansive strategy reaches beyond Middle Eastern sands, as documented by Horn Observer.

Puntland and North Western State of Somalia, with their vulnerable coastal stretches, remain susceptible. The IRGC’s network—tactical and intricate—might continue its covert cause, leaving global onlookers wary and watchful.

The anticipation is palpable. As agreements are inked and alliances tested, what will Somalia’s narrative script in this regional chronicle?