(27-08-23) MOGADISHU — The United Kingdom on Sunday called for an urgent ceasefire between the Somaliland government and the SSC-Khatumo Administration amid escalating conflict in the disputed Sool region. UK Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, took to Twitter to voice Britain’s concerns after speaking directly with Somaliland’s President Muse Bihi Abdi.
“The UK urges all parties to exercise restraint and ensure humanitarian aid access. Ceasefire and dialogue are critical,” said Ambassador Nithavrianakis. This appeal comes a day after Somaliland admitted defeat at Gooja’adde, a key base captured by SSC-Khatumo forces last Friday.
For months, Somaliland has ignored international and UN Security Council requests to withdraw troops from Las Anod, a town under fire since February. The ongoing conflict has heightened concerns about wider destabilisation in the Horn of Africa.
The UK’s appeal accentuates the international urgency for a peaceful resolution, as reports indicate a worsening humanitarian situation in the region. Britain is urging both parties to engage in peaceful dialogue, comply with international humanitarian law, and allow aid access to those in need.
The dispute between Somaliland and SSC-Khatumo over Sool is rooted in historical and territorial conflicts but has escalated to a point of international concern. The UK’s call for an immediate end to hostilities underlines the gravity of a situation that risks destabilising an already volatile region.
Halqabsi News
