Somalia cancels all security and defense agreements with UAE

Behind many global instabilities, Israel and the United Arab Emirates often emerge as key actors, collaborating across various domains. Their secret alliance has fueled tensions within the Arab and Muslim worlds, with many observers viewing the UAE’s stance as a betrayal of the principles and nations of the region.The Somali government has terminated its agreements with the United Arab Emirates following accusations of violations of sovereignty and support for separatist entities.

On Monday, the government of Somalia announced the cancellation of all security and defense agreements concluded with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) concerning several strategic ports, including Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo. This decision comes after reports and solid evidence indicating “violations of the country’s sovereignty, national unity, and political independence,” according to the Office of the Prime Minister.

A strong move to preserve sovereignty

During a meeting of the Council of Ministers, Somali officials agreed to annul all agreements and cooperation arrangements related to the aforementioned ports, emphasizing that the decision aims to protect the country’s territorial integrity. A bill on the protection of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial unity was also adopted, seeking to prevent regional administrations and private entities from concluding agreements with foreign parties without the prior approval of the federal government.

The statement specifies that the sovereignty law would prohibit local entities from negotiating directly with foreign parties, thereby strengthening the control of the central government. This sovereignty protection bill aims to preserve the country’s integrity and ensure centralized management of international agreements.

The United Arab Emirates and its support for separatist entities

This decision is also linked to recent tensions surrounding Israel’s recognition of the Somaliland region as an independent entity, a move that was supported behind the scenes by the United Arab Emirates. This backing of a separatist actor in the region has exacerbated tensions and led Mogadishu to question the loyalty and actions of the UAE.

The Somali government also accuses the Emirates of supporting the Southern Yemen Transitional Council, another factor contributing to instability in the Horn of Africa region. According to the Somali government, these actions undermine not only Somalia’s sovereignty but also the stability of the region as a whole.

A decision backed by solid evidence

The Somali government stated that this cancellation is based on detailed reports and solid evidence pointing to actions that harm national sovereignty and the unity of the country. Somali authorities clarified that these actions violate the principles of international law, particularly those related to sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity. Indeed, such practices are deemed contrary to the principles of non-interference and respect for state sovereignty, as enshrined in the Charters of the United Nations and the African Union.

An immediate announcement and diplomatic actions

The Somali government has instructed its Ministry of Foreign Affairs to officially notify the United Arab Emirates of this decision and to coordinate the implementation of the corresponding measures. This cancellation will also be brought to the attention of the African Union, the United Nations, and other international partners to ensure transparency and cooperation in the enforcement of this policy.

Somalia’s decision comes amid a complex geopolitical context in which regional actors, notably the United Arab Emirates, seek to strengthen their influence in the Horn of Africa. However, this policy of inclusion and clear sovereignty demonstrates that Mogadishu intends to prioritize the country’s independence and unity in the face of external pressures.

A decision that redefines diplomatic relations

The cancellation of these agreements marks a turning point in relations between Somalia and the United Arab Emirates. By taking this step, Somalia signals its determination to prioritize the preservation of its sovereignty and national unity over external pressures. The impact of this policy on diplomatic relations in the Gulf of Aden region and beyond will be closely watched, as it could redefine geopolitical balances in this part of the world.