Somalia terminates UAE port security deals over sovereignty breach

The Somali federal government has formally cancelled all security and defense agreements with the United Arab Emirates related to several strategic ports, accusing the Gulf state of violating the nation's sovereignty. A statement from the Prime Minister's office on Monday said the decision was based on "reports and strong evidence regarding wrongful actions" that compromise Somalia's unity and political independence.

Specific Port Agreements Annulled

During a cabinet meeting, ministers agreed to annul all pacts and cooperative arrangements linked to the ports of Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo. These agreements, which often involved Emirati training of security forces and port management, have been a point of contention as Mogadishu seeks to assert greater federal control over its territory and foreign relations.

New Legislation to Centralize Authority

Concurrently, the Somali cabinet approved a draft law designed to protect national sovereignty and territorial unity. This legislation would explicitly prohibit regional administrations and private entities from entering into agreements with foreign parties without prior notification and explicit approval from the federal government in Mogadishu, along with oversight from the relevant ministry.

Context of a Regional Dispute

The dramatic move follows a specific investigation by Somalia's Immigration and Citizenship Agency. The probe focused on the alleged unauthorized use of Somali airspace by Aidarous al-Zubaidi, the head of Yemen's Southern Transitional Council (STC). The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen had previously accused Abu Dhabi of facilitating al-Zubaidi's exit from the region via Somali territory, a claim that has heightened tensions and appears to have directly influenced Mogadishu's decision.