By Shire Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 17 January 2026 Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi ‘Irro’ on Friday accused Somalia’s federal government of preparing a military offensive against the self-declared republic, warning foreign allies against what he described as interference that could destabilise the Horn of Africa.
Speaking at a luncheon meeting in the capital Hargeisa, Irro said Somalia was mobilising troops and weapons, allegedly with support from Turkey, and transporting them to the contested town of Las Anod.
“The Somali government is preparing an offensive against Somaliland. Aircraft belonging to Turkey are transporting troops and weapons to Las Anod” Irro said. He added that Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud had stated that Somalia and its allies were working together to return Somaliland under Mogadishu’s authority.
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Irro warned international partners not to become involved in actions that could fuel instability. “I warn them not to take part in interfering in Somaliland, or to participate in actions that could cause instability in Somaliland or the Horn of Africa.” he said.
His comments come as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre arrived in Las Anod to attend the inauguration of the newly appointed President of the North East State administration.
