Egypt Vows to Defend Nile Waters and Somalia's Sovereignty Amid Escalating Tensions with Ethiopia

CAIRO, Egypt - Egypt has vowed to protect the Nile waters following a conflict with Ethiopia over the construction of the Grand Renaissance Dam (GERD), noting that it shall also defend Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty in the process.

Badr Abdelatty, the country's foreign affairs minister, said Egypt's desire to solve the Nile River dispute was based on benefiting all parties involved without harming downstream countries that use the Nile River for economic activities.

He accused Ethiopia of violating international law and acting unilaterally in the matter. He questioned the intention of Ethiopia to start a mega project without consulting the countries that share the waters.

“Egypt’s vision for resolving the water crisis was based on benefiting all parties and fair use without harm to downstream countries,” Abdelatty said. “Ethiopia violated international law and handled the water issue unilaterally.”

“Anyone who thinks Egypt will compromise on any existential threat is mistaken,” Abdelatty warned on Ethiopia’s Nile dam issue.

Cairo also lamented Ethiopia's recent actions which are geared towards threatening Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Further, we also sought answers as to why Israeli's actions in Gaza have gone unquestioned by several global superpowers.

Abdelatty also stressed the need for reform within the UN system to effectively address global challenges. “We condemn the Israeli attacks on Lebanon and call for an immediate ceasefire,” Abdelatty said.

“Israel’s brutal aggression in Gaza and the West Bank has exposed the weakness and double standards of the international community,” Abdelatty said. “The legitimacy of the United Nations is at stake, and the global system needs reform to address the scale of challenges we face.”

Abdelatty outlined Egypt’s efforts to mediate a resolution to the conflict. “Egypt and Qatar mediated for an agreement, but Israel obstructed the negotiations,” he said.

As a member of the Arab League of Nations, Egypt has been keen to call shots in the far north and the Middle East amid ongoing conflict. But of importance, is the determination to protect Somalia from Ethiopia's endless threats.

GAROWE ONLINE