MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia joined nine nations voting for a U.N. Security Council resolution to reimpose sanctions on Iran’s weapons programs.
The move aligns Somalia with Western powers — particularly the U.S. — in increasing pressure on Tehran over its nuclear and ballistic missile activities.
The resolution stipulates that sanctions lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal will snap back September 28 unless Iran halts support for regional armed groups.
Those groups include Hezbollah, Hamas, and Yemen’s Houthi rebels, all of which Western powers say receive military and financial backing from Tehran.
Four countries, including China and Russia, opposed the measure. Somalia’s support makes it one of few African nations backing new sanctions on Iran.
The vote signals a shift in Somalia’s foreign policy, which has typically favored cordial relations with Muslim-majority countries, including the Islamic Republic of Iran.
While Somalia hasn’t explained its vote publicly, observers say it reflects closer ties with Washington and a stance against extremism and illicit arms.
Analysts also view the move as Somalia aligning itself with efforts to contain destabilizing activities by state and non-state actors in the region.
The decision may reshape Somalia’s foreign relations, affecting its position among traditional allies and opening doors to new strategic partnerships globally.
