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Ethiopia has pledged to continue its fight against the al-Shabaab militant group, emphasizing its resolve to prevent the organization from becoming a national security threat. In a recent briefing, Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, spokesperson for Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, made it clear that the country would use any means necessary to counter al-Shabaab, despite tensions with neighboring Somalia.
Ethiopia’s Counterterrorism Strategy
Ambassador Getachew underscored that Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to weaken al-Shabaab were crucial to ensuring the militant group does not gain any foothold in the region. “Al-Shabaab remains a concern for our national security, and efforts to counter it will continue in all circumstances,” he remarked, stressing the importance of maintaining the victories already achieved against the group. Ethiopia’s strategic focus on regional integration and security remains a top priority as the nation continues to tackle threats from al-Shabaab and other militant factions.
Somalia’s Opposition to Ethiopia’s Role in Upcoming AU Mission
Tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia have escalated following Somalia’s objections to Ethiopia’s participation in the upcoming African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Somalia’s Defense Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, recently declared that Ethiopia would not be part of the mission, which is set to begin in January 2025. The mission is intended to provide continued support in the fight against al-Shabaab, with an initial troop deployment of approximately 12,000 soldiers.
Minister Nur argued that Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland, which includes facilitating Ethiopian access to the sea, undermines Somalia’s sovereignty and national unity. Ethiopia’s growing ties with Somaliland have added to the diplomatic strain between the two nations, with Somalia voicing concerns over the potential recognition of Somaliland’s independence as part of the agreement.
The African Union Mission’s Transition and Ethiopia-Somalia Relations
The African Union (AU) peacekeeping mission in Somalia, originally known as AMISOM and later rebranded as ATMIS, has played a key role in supporting Somalia’s fight against al-Shabaab since 2007. With ATMIS set to conclude in December 2024, the new AUSSOM mission will begin in January 2025, extending the AU’s efforts to stabilize Somalia through 2028.
The strained relations between Ethiopia and Somalia are rooted in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year, which has allowed Ethiopia to gain access to Somaliland’s ports. The agreement has sparked controversy, as Somalia views Somaliland as part of its territory. Despite the disagreement, Ethiopia’s commitment to combatting al-Shabaab remains unwavering.