Egypt's Military Aid to Somalia: A Strategic Move Amid Regional Tensions
In a significant development, Egypt has intensified its military support to Somalia, delivering a substantial arms shipment to the country's capital, Mogadishu. This move, which follows a growing alliance between the two nations, is likely to further escalate tensions with Ethiopia.
An Egyptian warship, carrying a diverse range of weaponry, including anti-aircraft guns and artillery, arrived in Mogadishu. This is the second major military aid package from Egypt to Somalia, with the first being delivered in August, marking the country's most significant military aid in over four decades.
The Egyptian Foreign Ministry emphasized Egypt's commitment to supporting Somalia's development and security aspirations. This aid, they claim, is a reaffirmation of Egypt's central role in the region.
The delivery of these arms comes at a time when Egypt and Somalia's relationship has strengthened due to their shared concerns about Ethiopia. Cairo's decision to send multiple plane loads of arms to Mogadishu after signing a joint security pact in August is a direct response to this growing mistrust.
According to sources, the Egyptian warship began unloading its cargo on Sunday, with security forces securing the quayside and surrounding areas. The weapons were then transported to various military destinations, including the Defence Ministry building.
The tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have been exacerbated by Ethiopia's agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland. This deal, which involves the lease of land for a port in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland's independence, has been met with anger and resistance from Mogadishu.
Ethiopia's presence in Somalia, with at least 3,000 soldiers stationed as part of a peacekeeping mission, has further strained relations. Somalia has called for the withdrawal of all Ethiopian soldiers by the end of the year unless the Somaliland agreement is rescinded.
Egypt, too, has been at odds with Ethiopia over the construction of a hydroelectric dam on the Nile River. Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has publicly stated Egypt's solidarity with Somalia and its commitment to protecting Somalia's security.
Additionally, Egypt has offered to contribute troops to a new peacekeeping mission in Somalia, a proposal that has been well-received by the African Union.
This strategic move by Egypt highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region. As tensions rise, the delivery of military aid to Somalia underscores Egypt's determination to protect its interests and those of its allies.