Somalia expelled Ethiopia’s ambassador and closed two consulates in a significant escalation of tensions between the two countries. Somalia accuses Ethiopia of meddling in its internal affairs, particularly regarding a recent port deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland.
Rising Tensions:
- Somalia recalled its ambassador from Addis Ababa for consultations.
- Ethiopia’s foreign ministry claims ignorance about the expulsions.
The Port Deal at the Heart of the Conflict:
- Ethiopia signed a deal to lease a coastal strip in Somaliland for a potential naval base.
- Somalia views this as an attack on its sovereignty as it considers Somaliland part of its territory.
- Reportedly, Ethiopia offered possible recognition to Somaliland in exchange for the deal, further angering Somalia.
- Somaliland declared independence over 30 years ago but lacks international recognition.
Somalia’s Response:
- Somalia demanded Ethiopia publicly retract the deal, which hasn’t happened.
- Somalia’s president pursued diplomatic efforts with countries at odds with Ethiopia.
- Somalia considers the port deal an act of aggression and a threat to regional stability.
Additional Factors:
- Ethiopia contributes troops to a peacekeeping mission in Somalia, making a full-blown conflict unlikely.
- Tensions could benefit the Islamist group al-Shabab by aiding recruitment and increasing security threats.
The Takeaway:
The expulsion and consulate closures indicate a severe strain on Somalia-Ethiopia relations. Resolving the port deal and respecting Somalia’s territorial claims will be crucial for de-escalation.
