Reports swirling on social media, with sources converging from within Mogadishu, hint that the Hassan Sheikh Mohamud administration is adopting a more assertive position against Ethiopia. They’re even making territorial claims on the Ogaden region, suggesting it as part of Somalia.
Despite the brewing tension, the U.S. remains hopeful for a diplomatic resolution. The VOA Amharic report highlighted that the United States, along with unspecified partners, is striving towards this goal.
“In the present circumstances, America is collaborating with other nations to broker a diplomatic solution,” remarked Richard Riley, the U.S. Ambassador to Somalia.
Ambassador Riley mentioned that the U.S. is engaging both the Federal government in Somalia and the administration in Addis Ababa. He also referenced Turkish-mediated discussions between Ethiopia and Somalia. “We expect these talks to resume shortly,” he noted.
When questioned about the potential for conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia spiraling into a war, the Ambassador responded, “Absolutely not.” He emphasized, “The likelihood of any conflict erupting is virtually non-existent. That’s why the international community is diligently working towards a peaceful resolution. The United States’ mission is to find a solution between Ethiopia and Somalia.”
The VOA Amharic report indicates the U.S.’s urgency for a quick resolution. Ambassador Riley is quoted stressing, “The essential issue is this needs to happen quickly, and the time is now.”
Last month, Somalia inked a defense agreement with Egypt, which is deploying 10,000 troops to Somalia. Meanwhile, social media buzzed with claims that Ethiopian forces have taken control of certain Somali airports, although the Ethiopian government remains silent on the matter.
Somalia and Ethiopia’s relationship is fraught with tension and past conflicts. The most recent flare-up began in January 2024, following a memorandum of understanding between Ethiopia and Somaliland.
The MoU allowed Ethiopia access to 20 kilometers of Somaliland’s coast for maritime and commercial use on a fifty-year lease. In exchange, Ethiopia agreed to recognize Somaliland, a self-declared state existing in de facto autonomy for over three decades, as an independent nation.
The finalization of this agreement was expected within a month but extended beyond the anticipated timeline. This week, North Western of Somaliaofficials confirmed the completion of the deal, although details remain undisclosed.
