(06-01-24) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) — Somalia has announced a substantial mobilisation of its naval forces, supported by Türkiye and Egypt, in response to the escalating maritime tensions in the Horn of Africa. This move comes in the wake of the controversial Ethiopia-Somaliland port agreement, which has been a source of contention due to Ethiopia’s bid for access to the sea and Somaliland’s quest for international recognition, a development that has caused unease in Mogadishu.
General Caanood, the Defence Ministry’s spokesperson, has declared a nationwide call to arms for navy personnel, signalling a robust military response. This mobilisation includes over 3,000 marines trained by Eritrea and Somali diaspora volunteers. “The Somali navy is en route to Zeila,” General Caanood stated, underlining Somalia’s commitment to defending its territorial waters.
In a significant show of support, Türkiye has pledged to deploy its naval fleet to Somali waters and will also supply naval ships to enhance the Somali maritime forces. This decision reflects Türkiye’s longstanding commitment to Somalia and marks a deepening of military ties between the two nations.
Egypt, a pivotal player in regional security, is set to engage in joint naval exercises with the Somali Navy. This collaboration is particularly crucial, given Egypt’s strategic interest in maintaining stability in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, vital maritime routes for international trade.
Major General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhuyidin, Somalia’s Chief of Defence Force, has instructed senior naval officers to bolster the country’s maritime defence. This directive highlights the urgency with which the Somali government is addressing perceived threats to its sovereignty.
Halqabsi News
