Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a bold statement, Somalia has openly denounced Iran's aggressive missile strikes targeting US military hubs in Qatar. This act, Somalia asserts, flagrantly violates international law and infringes upon Qatar's airspace—a nation considered an economic cornerstone in the Middle East. This incident, Somalia claims, could exacerbate instability across the Horn of Africa and the broader Middle Eastern region. It highlights a dire need for dialogue to address ongoing tensions involving the United…

Northeastern State’s Approach to Young Militants: A Delicate Balance of Security and Rehabilitation Garowe (AX) — In the complex landscape of Northeastern State’s response to youth militants affiliated with Al-Shabaab and ISIS, the government has made a firm decision: rehabilitation centers are not an option. The rationale? The perceived danger these young fighters pose outweighs any potential benefits of reintegration. During a recent session of the Northeastern State Parliament, Justice Minister Mohamed Abdiwahaab…

Somalia Delisted from Child Soldiers Recruitment Countries MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a significant stride towards safeguarding children's rights, Somalia has successfully been removed from the list of nations identified for the recruitment of child soldiers. This action, acknowledged and enforced by the United Nations, marks a pivotal moment in the country's journey towards enduring peace and protection of human rights. The issue of child soldiers has long been a scar on the…

As North Western State of Somalia embarks on its journey of state-building and strives for democratic consolidation, it finds itself in a unique position to draw lessons from the experiences of other nations in the Global South. One particularly resonant example is Bangladesh, a country that has utilized interim governance structures during times of national transition. In a recent interview with Al Jazeera, Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus poignantly highlighted the necessity of structural transformation in the…

The Red Sea: A Maritime Corridor at a Crossroads The Red Sea, a pivotal artery in global trade, serves as more than just a body of water—it's a lifeline connecting economies and cultures. This magnificent expanse links the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal to the Indian Ocean, a route bustling with ships laden with goods, from oil to electronics. Imagine the continuous flow of commerce and wonder, why does such a crucial passage face mounting threats? Let's delve into the challenges. Recent conflicts, geopolitical…

Sovereignty and Nationhood: A Fragile Fabric in Somalia In the vast landscape of international law and politics, the terms "sovereignty" and "nationhood" are often thrown around like interchangeable tools in a toolbox. Yet, as history unfolds, it becomes glaringly clear that these concepts diverge significantly. The core of the modern state system, which many attribute to the Westphalian principles established in 1648, encompasses more than just physical borders or national flags. It relies crucially…

Turkey and Somalia: Forging a Strong Alliance On Monday, a pivotal meeting unfolded, building on a series of significant agreements established over the past year. Among these was a landmark accord reached in February 2024, when the Somali cabinet approved a comprehensive 10-year defense and economic cooperation pact with Turkey. This initiative promises a host of collaborations, including naval training, joint patrols, and a revenue-sharing model for offshore…

The Red Sea, a crucial lifeblood in global trade and maritime navigation, is more than a mere waterway; it represents an intricate tapestry of economic interdependence and geopolitical significance. Stretching across lands and cultures, it connects the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal to the vast Indian Ocean. Each year, it bears witness to the passage of billions of dollars worth of goods—everything from oil and food to manufactured products—ultimately sustaining the very fabric of international commerce. However,…

Uganda Confirms Death of 7 Soldiers in Somalia Clash With Al-Shabaab KAMPALA, Uganda - The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has solemnly announced the death of seven of its soldiers who were part of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This tragic incident unfolded amidst intense conflict with the notorious al-Shabaab fighters. For close to 20 years, Uganda has played a pivotal role in the mission, deploying approximately 3,000 troops in a bid to bring peace to…

Reactions from Somali Leaders Following Iran's Strike on Qatar's U.S. Base Garowe (AX) — In the unfolding tapestry of geopolitical tension, the recent missile strike by Iran on a U.S. military base in Qatar has stirred a profound response from prominent Somali leaders. Former presidents Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and Sharif Sheikh Ahmed have vocally condemned this act, asserting that it not only violates international law but also poses a significant threat to the…