Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The United Kingdom and United States envoys to Somalia have called on the Federal Government of Somalia and Jubaland State to find a peaceful resolution to the escalating conflict between the two sides.
On Tuesday, UK Ambassador to Somalia Mike Nithavrianakis met with Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre in Mogadishu to discuss the situation.
“Stability and unity are key for Somalia’s future. Met with PM @HamzaAbdiBarre to discuss current tensions in Jubaland and the need to find a peaceful resolution, as well as critical security issues. The UK remains committed to supporting Somalia’s progress,” Nithavrianakis stated.
US Urges Avoidance of Armed Conflict
Meanwhile, speaking at a town hall meeting, US Ambassador to Somalia Richard Riley expressed deep concern about the rising tensions in Jubaland, warning against the dangers of armed confrontation.
“We are concerned about the trajectory of things in Jubaland. We have voiced our opinion unilaterally as the United States and multilaterally as the international community. Our message is very clear: this cannot escalate into armed conflict. This cannot be a repeat of 2013 or 2019. You must not go to armed confrontation; it benefits no one except the enemy, Al-Shabaab,” Ambassador Riley emphasized.
Background to the Conflict
The current tensions erupted after Jubaland State President Ahmed Mohamed Islam 'Madobe' was re-elected for a third term, a move rejected by the Federal Government of Somalia. In response, the Federal Government deployed troops to Raskamboni in Lower Juba, claiming the deployment was part of taking over security responsibilities from African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) forces.
However, Jubaland State accused the Federal Government of causing instability in areas under its administration.
Call for De-escalation
Both the UK and US envoys underscored the need for dialogue and warned of the consequences of further conflict. Their calls reflect growing international concerns that escalating tensions could derail Somalia’s fragile stability and embolden Al-Shabaab insurgents.
The UK and US reiterated their commitments to supporting Somalia’s progress, particularly in areas of security, economic recovery, and youth empowerment.
The international community now awaits further steps from both sides to de-escalate and engage in peaceful negotiations to resolve the crisis.
