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Erdogan heads to UAE, Ethiopia as Turkey presses Gaza cease-fire and backs Somalia’s unity Turkey sharpens Gulf trade push while asserting influence in the Horn of Africa amid tensions over North Western State of Somalia recognition Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 MOGADISHU — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to visit the United Arab Emirates on Monday before traveling to Ethiopia on Tuesday, with Gaza and Somalia’s territorial integrity expected to anchor a two-stop tour aimed at entwining economic outreach with…

Somalia blocks planes carrying Jubaland, Puntland State security teams from landing in Mogadishu MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s federal government on Monday blocked two planes carrying security personnel for the presidents of Jubaland and Puntland State from landing at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport, citing national security concerns ahead of planned political talks in the capital. Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi said the arrival of a heavily armed contingent tied to the two regional leaders posed an…

The Kremlin said U.S.-brokered trilateral talks between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in the United Arab Emirates over the weekend were held in a “constructive spirit,” but cautioned that no early breakthrough should be expected as core territorial disputes remain unresolved. “It would be a mistake to expect any significant results from the initial contacts,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, calling the opening exchanges positive while adding there was “significant work ahead.” He underscored that…

Contradictions in CAR’s Political Landscape: A New Era or a Cycle of Conflict? The Central African Republic (CAR) stands at a pivotal juncture following the recent elections, which have been marred by violence and turmoil. Reports indicate that clashes erupted as a militia—initially formed with backing from Russia—turned against the government. This alarming development raises questions about the stability of the nation and the broader implications for the region. In the midst of this chaos, President Faustin-Archange…

Deadly landmine blast kills at least 7 civilians near Ceeldheer in central Somalia CEELDHEER, Somalia — At least seven civilians were killed and several others were wounded Sunday when a vehicle traveling in a convoy struck a landmine on the outskirts of Ceeldheer district in central Somalia’s Galgaduud region, local officials said. Authorities said the injured were evacuated to Mogadishu for treatment. Details on the number of wounded and the extent of their injuries were not immediately available. Security officials blamed…

Central African Republic Election: President Touadera Seeks Third Term Amid Controversy Elections commenced in the Central African Republic (CAR) as President Faustin-Archange Touadera aims for a third term following a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished term limits and extended presidential terms to seven years. Voters participated in a series of elections, including presidential, legislative, regional, and municipal contests. With seven candidates vying for the presidency, analysts predominantly view Touadera,…

Airstrikes target al-Shabab bases in central Somalia after clashes, sources say WARSHEEKH, Somalia — Airstrikes struck villages in the Warsheekh district of Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region, targeting al-Shabab fighters who had recently infiltrated the area, local sources said. The strikes were concentrated around the Jabad-godane area, which in recent days had been occupied by the militant group, according to the sources. The air campaign followed ground clashes between government troops and fighters loyal to al-Shabab as…

JALALAQSI, Somalia — Heavy fighting broke out early Sunday in the central Somali town of Jalalaqsi as forces loyal to the district commissioner clashed with armed clan militias following the detention of a traditional community elder, according to officials and witnesses. Residents said they awoke to sustained gunfire as the two sides exchanged fire around district government buildings in Jalalaqsi, in the Hiiraan region. The violence began after local authorities detained a leading elder, prompting members of his clan to…

Army raids deal major blow to al-Shabab in central Somalia GALGADUUD, Somalia — Somali government forces say they destroyed al-Shabab hideouts and secured a key roadway during an operation in central Somalia, marking a fresh setback for the extremist group as the army intensifies its campaign across Galmudug state. Troops from the Somali National Army’s 242nd Battalion led the raid along the corridor between Cali Yabaal and the Geeriile junction, targeting what officials described as a supply store and shelters used by the…

Somali regional forces kill at least seven al‑Shabaab militants in Galgaduud clash MOGADISHU, Somalia — Regional forces in central Somalia said they killed at least seven al‑Shabaab fighters during a fierce overnight clash in the Ceelahelay area of Galgaduud, marking one of the most significant engagements in months as the campaign against the insurgent group continues. The clash Galmudug state’s Darwish Forces fought with al‑Shabaab in Ceelahelay, with support from Somali national troops, regional commanders said Sunday.…