MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a confidential letter uncovered recently, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made an audacious offer to the then U.S. President Donald Trump. The proposal, which is nothing short of groundbreaking, seeks to grant exclusive operational control to the U.S. over crucial military airbases and key ports in Somalia. But is it a move towards strengthening bilateral ties, or does it open Pandora’s box of internal strife?
This letter, penned on March 16, 2025, outlines an invitation for the U.S. to take command over Balidogle and Berbera airbases, in addition to the ports of Berbera and Bosaso. Geographically, these locations span strategic points: Balidogle lies south, a bastion for the U.S.-trained Danab Special Forces, while Berbera and Bosaso mark pivotal gateways in the self-proclaimed republic of North Western State of Somalia and the federal state of Northeastern State, respectively.
“These strategically positioned assets provide an opportunity to bolster American engagement in the region, ensuring uninterrupted military and logistical access while preventing external competitors from establishing a presence in this critical corridor,” — President Hassan Sheikh wrote.
Regional Repercussions: Northeastern State’s Perspective
The letter might have been sent with strategic foresight, but the silence from Northeastern State authorities reveals deeper tensions. Close sources suggest an inevitable rejection. Northeastern State, after all, holds on tightly to the idea that the provisional constitution bars the federal government from making unilateral deals concerning regional assets without consent. Could this overture to the U.S. be the straw that breaks the camel’s back in federal-regional relations?
Northeastern State has not been a tranquil state in recent years. Clashing views on constitutional interpretation and President Hassan Sheikh’s perceived centralization have ignited a push for more autonomy. This letter could very well reignite the simmering discord.
A Firm “No” from North Western State of Somalia
Turning our gaze to North Western State of Somalia, which prides itself on a long-standing quest for international recognition since its self-declared independence in 1991, the response was crisp and decisive. North Western State of Somalia’s Foreign Minister, Abdirahman Dahir, wasted no time in condemning the correspondence, branding it as “desperate and misguided.” One might wonder: does this not reflect deeper rifts of sovereignty and self-determination?
“This is a clear sign of a regime on its last breath. No action from Somalia will derail our path to recognition,” — North Western State of Somalia’s Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir posted on X (formerly Twitter).
It’s worth noting that the Berbera Port carries greater international intrigue, already encapsulated in a concession agreement with DP World, a logistics titan from the UAE. Similarly, Bosaso’s port once saw developmental efforts by DP World’s affiliate P&O Ports back in 2019.
Legal, Sovereignty, and the Shared Jurisdiction Dilemma
Is President Hassan Sheikh’s proposal legally sound? Constitutional experts cast doubt, suggesting a blatant overreach unless the proposed deals bear the marks of consultations and agreements with the respective federal states. The provisional constitution is crystal clear: land, ports, and security fall under a shared jurisdiction. How then, can Mogadishu claim the exclusive right to decide?
The historical echoes in President Hassan Sheikh’s letter, referencing the U.S.-Somalia Cold War partnerships, tell a tale of strategic geopolitics. But today’s Somalia, layered with complex federal dynamics, poses a starkly different landscape.
A Geostrategic Chess Game
In the broad canvas of international relations, the timing of this outreach could not be more critical. With the horn of Africa emerging as a contest ground for global powers, the U.S. currently eyes a counterbalance to the growing influences of China and Russia. In such a scenario, Somalia’s extensive coastline offers a tantalizing promise.
“Renewed collaboration in the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and beyond,” President Hassan Sheikh suggested, emphasizing the benefits both nations might garner from these partnerships.
Moreover, President Hassan Sheikh extended an invitation for a diplomatic delegation to Mogadishu, aiming for substantial dialog, but will a mere visit suffice in unraveling such intricately woven regional issues?
Security Contexts and Symbolic Gestures
The symbolism surrounding this letter cannot be overlooked. Amidst the fierce battles against Al-Shabaab, with significant U.S. involvement in air and intelligence operations, this offer comes as Somalia seeks unified backing against terrorism. Yet, what happens when foundation stones of unity are shaken from within?
Northeastern State’s tentative response, expected to translate into outright refusal, could serve as a catalyst reawakening past grievances. By opening doors for international alignment, does Somalia risk closing its doors to internal cohesion?
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
