Tensions are rising in the Horn of Africa as Ethiopia’s plans to build a naval base and commercial port in the region have sparked anger from Somalia. The move threatens Somalia’s territorial integrity and has led to a war of words between the two countries.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre of Somalia condemned Ethiopia’s actions at the UN General Assembly, calling them unlawful and unnecessary. Somalia has also threatened to expel Ethiopian troops deployed in the country as part of an African Union mission against militants.
Adding to the complexity, Somalia has signed a military deal with Egypt, receiving weapons shipments that have raised concerns in Ethiopia. Egypt has offered to replace Ethiopian troops in the African Union mission, further complicating the situation.
As tensions escalate, Somalia may force Ethiopia to remove troops stationed along their shared border. The region is on edge as the power struggle between these neighboring countries unfolds.