Key Highlights:
- Deadly clash between Somali and Ethiopian forces in Jubaland.
- Somalia protests Ethiopia’s actions.
- Ethiopia blames third parties for destabilization.
- Both nations are trying to keep a recent peace deal on track.
Border Clash Erupts in Jubaland
On Monday, a violent confrontation occurred in the Somali border state of Jubaland between Somali and Ethiopian forces. According to sources in Jubaland, Ethiopian troops were protecting local politicians from an alleged attack by Somali forces in the town of Doolow. This incident adds to the recent volatility in the region, where Jubaland has had several clashes with the Somali federal government.
Somalia’s Response
Somalia’s state minister for foreign affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, met with his Ethiopian counterpart, Mesganu Arega, to express his government’s strong condemnation of the conduct of Ethiopian forces in Doolow. The Somali government views this incident as a serious breach of their sovereignty.
Ethiopia’s Perspective
In response, Ethiopia’s foreign ministry issued a statement denying any wrongdoing, attributing the violence to ‘third parties… intent on destabilising the Horn of Africa.’ However, the statement failed to provide concrete details, raising some eyebrows in the international community. This response adds to the complex narrative of who bears the most responsibility for the recent tensions. The incident comes at a delicate time, as the two countries try to move forward following a rocky year.
The Ankara Declaration: A Fragile Peace
Both Ethiopia and Somalia are keen to preserve a recent peace agreement facilitated by Turkey. The two countries were at loggerheads earlier in the year, particularly after Ethiopia signed an agreement with Somaliland (a breakaway region of Somalia) to lease a stretch of coastline for a port and military base. This move by Ethiopia was seen by Somalia as a direct attack on its sovereignty and sparked a significant diplomatic and military conflict. This conflict seemed to have been resolved when Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met in Ankara on December 12 and signed a declaration that is expected to give landlocked Ethiopia an alternative sea access in Somalia.
Efforts to Maintain Peace
Despite the recent border clash, both nations appear committed to maintaining the progress made by the Ankara Declaration. Ethiopia emphasized its commitment to revitalizing relations with Somalia, and Somalia expressed its willingness to harmonize efforts for the full implementation of the peace deal. Diplomats from both sides are likely working behind the scenes to ensure the tensions subside quickly.
Looking Ahead
The border region remains volatile, and both sides will need to be vigilant to ensure the fragile peace is not broken. The international community will be closely watching to see if the two countries can maintain their commitment to the Ankara Declaration despite recent setbacks. Further, this incident highlights the delicate nature of peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and the potential for renewed conflict at any time.
This incident is a reminder of the complexities of regional politics and the importance of continued diplomatic efforts.
