strategic

The Shifting Sands of Conflict: Al-Shabaab’s Recent Control of Maxaas In a dramatic twist of events, armed fighters from Al-Shabaab have taken control of the strategic town of Maxaas, located approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Somalia's bustling capital, Mogadishu. This recent development, marked by intense fighting with the national army and local militias, highlights the ongoing struggle within a region characterized by its complex social dynamics and historical tensions. The day was December 8,…

Somalia’s Leadership Faces Trials Amid Turmoil at Home ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — On a day filled with both ambition and anxiety, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud touched down in Addis Ababa. His agenda? To participate in the second United Nations Food Systems Summit. Yet, his journey coincides with escalating unrest that threatens the stability of his homeland. As President Mohamud arrived at Bole International Airport, Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh extended a warm welcome. It was a moment of…

In a significant display of diplomatic camaraderie, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed his Somali counterpart, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, to Ankara last Friday. This meeting, held behind closed doors at the opulent Presidential Complex, served as a reaffirmation of the bilateral relationship between Türkiye and Somalia, with a keen focus on counterterrorism and cooperative regional efforts. The discussions marked a pivotal moment in both nations' agendas—one that intertwines security aspirations with…

Between Ethiopia and Egypt: Somalia, the Proxy Pawn By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring EDITORIAL | In the intricate tapestry of geopolitics, a stage where nations are both performers and observers, Somalia finds itself caught not as a lead actor but rather as a piece on a chessboard—moved by strategies more refined than its own. The backdrop of this dynamic? A modern duel between Ethiopia and Egypt, echoing ancient rivalries,…

Villa Somalia’s Political Miscalculation in Northeastern State: A Strategy Unraveled EDITORIAL | The landscape of Somali politics is as dynamic as it is complex, with Villa Somalia often balancing the challenge of uniting a divided nation while exerting centralized influence. Recently, however, an ambitious attempt to integrate the regions of Sanaag and Haylaan into the emergent Khaatumo administration has faced a startling setback. This move has unearthed deep-seated resistance in Northeastern State and demonstrated a…

Strengthening Bonds: A Diplomatic Dialogue Between Egypt and Somalia In a significant gathering marked by hopeful intent and ambitious objectives, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi welcomed Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to the picturesque coastal city of New Alamein on Monday. This meeting shone a spotlight on the increasing importance of bilateral relations and the critical regional dynamics surrounding the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, areas that are experiencing both challenges and…

MOGADISHU, Somalia — A gripping scene unfolded on a seemingly quiet Monday in Somalia's central Hiiraan region, as the town of Moqokori became the epicenter of intense battles. Al-Shabaab, a notorious militant group, launched a series of strategically orchestrated attacks, sparking chaos and fear among residents. The audacity of Al-Shabaab was evident as they claimed responsibility for a well-coordinated assault, which included a shocking suicide car bombing aimed at military bases within the town.…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a decisive move against militant threats, the Somali National Army (SNA) and local allied forces showcased their resolve on Saturday morning. At approximately 5:45 AM, they successfully thwarted a pre-dawn assault by al-Shabab militants near Gumarre, close to Moqokori in the Hiiraan region. Military officials reported that the troops’ swift and coordinated response resulted in the elimination of at least 10 al-Shabab fighters. It is often said that preparedness is the cornerstone of success in military…

Somalia at a Crossroads: Independence Amidst Adversity As Somalia commemorates its 65th year of independence, the nation finds itself at a poignant juxtaposition, celebrating freedom while facing grave challenges. Recently, the news of Al-Shabaab seizing control of a key town has echoed through troubled frontlines, painting a complex picture of Somalia's ongoing battle for stability. Adan Yabaal town, once under the vigilant watch of the Somali National Army (SNA), fell to Al-Shabaab after a fierce confrontation. It marks…

A recent international survey involving 439 mobile and online games, spearheaded by national consumer agencies such as Ireland's Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), has unveiled concerning design techniques that may manipulate players, including those as young as three years old, into making decisions or purchases they might otherwise avoid. This initiative, organized by the International Consumer Protection Enforcement Network (ICPEN), aimed to uncover potential harm to consumers arising from mobile and…