(31-03-23) LasAnod – Laascaanood experienced rampant shelling by Somaliland forces on Friday morning, leading to chaos and destruction. The heartrending assault by the Somaliland militia resulted in the death of a young student, Fadumo Yusuf Awl, and left her mother injured while the casualties are more. The Somaliland forces also targeted the mayor’s office in Laascaanood, inflicting substantial damage to the entire building.
This attack took place on the same day the US State Department released a statement expressing its increasing concern over the ongoing violence in Laascaanood. The statement joined other international partners and neighbors in calling for de-escalation, adherence to the agreed ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian access, and resumption of constructive dialogue towards a peaceful resolution. Continued violence might increase the potential for extremist groups to sow broader instability and worsen the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
The US called on Somaliland to pull back its security forces as a demonstration of its commitment to these principles and urged militias in Laascaanood to refrain from any offensive actions against Somaliland forces. The statement also expressed support for the Federal Government of Somalia’s constructive engagement and deployment of a clan elders’ delegation, welcoming Somaliland President Bihi’s commitment to meet with the delegation in Hargeisa.
Furthermore, the US Department of State announced its intention to use authorities under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to restrict the issuance of visas to current or former Somali officials or other individuals who are believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Somalia, including in Somaliland. This decision comes amid growing concern over the ongoing violence and political instability in the region.
Somaliland previously ignored a call from US Ambassador to Somalia Larry André on Wednesday, who strongly urged Somaliland President Bihi to establish a buffer between forces in Laascaanood and announce a roadmap for future elections.
Observers are questioning whether this second statement from the State Department will have any impact on bringing peace to Laascaanood.
