MOGADISHU, Somalia — Northeastern Somalia warned Somaliland over alleged aggression, accusing it of actions that threaten peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
A statement from the Security Ministry condemned Somaliland’s “deliberate provocations,” claiming the Hargeisa-based administration aims to destabilize the region through hostile planning.
“The planned offensive by the Hargeisa administration poses a serious threat to the peace and stability of the region,” the statement said.
Officials claimed Somaliland seeks to incite unrest in Northeastern territories and pledged to defend any incursion targeting its land or people.
“We are prepared to confront any move that may lead to instability or invasion,” the ministry said in its official warning.
They urged international actors — including the UN, AU, Arab League, and IGAD — to condemn Somaliland’s “reckless and illegitimate” behavior in the disputed territories.
The statement emphasized peaceful intentions, saying Northeastern Somalia respects borders but warned that any violation would trigger “serious consequences.”
Tensions stem from the 2023 Las Anod conflict in Sool, where Somaliland forces clashed with SSC-Khaatumo militias and were eventually expelled.
Violence erupted after residents and local fighters armed themselves. Months of fighting led to a Somaliland retreat from Las Anod and surrounding areas.
The conflict displaced between 153,000 and 200,000 people as hundreds of civilians were killed in indiscriminate attacks. Thousands still face dire humanitarian conditions.
SSC-Khaatumo later gained control of Las Anod. The group claims affiliation with the Somali federal government and rejects Somaliland’s authority in Sool region.
Somaliland, a self-declared republic, claims areas also claimed by Puntland, including the Sool region, where Las Anod is located.
