Mogadishu, Somalia – The Somali government has issued a strong condemnation of a violent attack carried out by Ethiopian forces in the town of Dolow, Somalia. In a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Somali government described the incident as a deliberate assault on three key security facilities belonging to the Somali National Army (SNA), the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), and the Somali Police Force.
The attack resulted in fatalities and injuries among Somali forces stationed at these bases, as well as harm to civilians in the area, according to the statement.
“Unfortunately, during the attack, the Ethiopian forces killed and wounded members of the Somali forces who were in those facilities. Also, they harmed civilians who were there,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
The government noted that this incident occurred amidst ongoing peace efforts to reinforce the Ankara Agreement between the two nations. Notably, a high-level Somali delegation had been dispatched to Addis Ababa on the same day to further these peace initiatives.
The Somali government has described the attack as a clear violation of multiple agreements and principles, including the Ankara Agreement, the African Union Charter, United Nations regulations, and the longstanding tradition of good neighborliness between the two countries.
The press release emphasized Somalia’s commitment to peace and stability, expressing disappointment in actions that undermine these efforts. “Such acts of aggression jeopardize regional stability and the principles of cooperation that Somalia and Ethiopia have worked to foster,” the statement added.
The Somali government has called for accountability and urged all relevant parties, including regional and international organizations, to take notice of this violation and take appropriate measures to prevent further escalation.
This attack highlights the fragile relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia despite ongoing diplomatic engagements and agreements aimed at fostering peace and cooperation in the region. The Somali government reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing peaceful resolutions and upholding international law in addressing such incidents.
The situation remains tense, with both nations under pressure to de-escalate and ensure the incident does not lead to further instability in the region.
