The Federal Government of Somalia has issued a strong condemnation againist what it described as a “blatant act of aggression” by Ethiopian forces in the town of Doolow, Gedo region, earlier today.
The condemnation came hours after Somalia announced a visit by a delegation, led by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Omar, to travel to Addis Abeba today to reinforce commitments outlined in the Ankara Declaration.
In a statement after the announcement, however, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, claimed the attack, which it said had occurred at approximately 10:00 AM local time today. Somalia further claimed Ethiopian forces reportedly targeted three key bases operated by the Somali National Army (SNA), the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), and the Somali Police Force.
“Ethiopian forces launched an unprovoked and unexpected attack, causing fatalities and injuries among Somali personnel and civilians,” the statement said.
The statement also expressed dismay at the timing of the incident, noting that it coincided with ongoing peace efforts. “This aggression comes as Somalia is actively pursuing peacebuilding under the Ankara Declaration,” Somalia said, adding that “a high-level Somali delegation was dispatched to Addis Abeba just today to further these efforts.”
“This attack is a clear breach of the Ankara Declaration, the principles of the African Union, the Charter of the United Nations, and the norms of good neighborly relations,” Somalia further said.
Earlier today, local media in Somalia reported about clashes in Doolow, a town near the border with Ethiopia.Forces from Somalia federal army and Jubaland regional troops are present in the area where Ethiopian forces patrol strategic locations including the local airport.
The latest statement from Somalia warned that the country would not tolerate infringements on its sovereignty. “We will not remain silent in the face of such violations of Somalia’s territorial integrity and the rights of our people.”
As of the publication of this news, there has been no comment from the Ethiopian government