Somalia maintains neutrality amid Ethiopia-Eritrea tensions

Somalia has declared its neutrality regarding the escalating diplomatic and military tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Somali Deputy Foreign Minister Hassan Mohamed Ali Nadaar stated that Mogadishu maintains positive relations with both nations and intends to prioritize national interests while avoiding involvement in their confrontation.

The dispute between Ethiopia and Eritrea has intensified following accusations from Ethiopia that Eritrea is supporting armed groups in the Tigray region. Tensions are further complicated by Ethiopia’s efforts to secure access to the Red Sea and disagreements over the 2022 peace agreement in Tigray.

Somalia’s position has faced scrutiny following a recent four-way summit in Egypt involving leaders from Somalia, Eritrea, Sudan, and Egypt. The summit produced a joint declaration addressing regional security, Nile River water use, and Red Sea governance. Critics have questioned if Somalia’s participation in the summit—which addressed issues relevant to Ethiopia’s maritime interests and water rights—signals a shift in its neutral stance. However, Nadaar maintained that diplomatic engagement with these neighbors does not constitute support for their specific positions against Ethiopia.