MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somaliland has warned Somalia’s federal government against the use of military force following remarks by Somalia’s defense minister suggesting foreign intervention against the breakaway region.
In a statement Monday, Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said comments by Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi were dangerous, irresponsible and in violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter.
Somaliland reiterated that it does not recognize the authority of the government in Mogadishu and said it restored its independence in 1991 based on borders held at independence in 1960.
The statement said Somalia would bear responsibility for any consequences arising from what it described as threatening rhetoric and urged the international community to oppose actions that could destabilize the region.
Somaliland said it remains committed to peace but is prepared to defend itself in accordance with international law.
Fiqi told Al Jazeera that Somalia would not allow Israel to establish a military base in Somaliland territory and said Mogadishu has raised the issue in international forums as part of broader diplomatic efforts.
Somaliland has denied claims that Israel plans to establish a military presence in the territory.
Somaliland, in northwestern Somalia, declared independence in 1991 following the collapse of Somalia’s central government. It operates its own government and security forces but remains unrecognized internationally, while Somalia considers it part of its territory.
