Ethiopian troops take control of airports in Somalia

LUUQ, Somalia - Members of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) have reportedly taken over airports in western parts of Somalia, a move that could trigger diplomatic fallout and possible war within the Horn of Africa region.

For eight months, Somalia and Ethiopia have been at loggerheads after the latter signed an agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia, which gives it access to 20 kilometers of the Red Sea in exchange for recognition as a sovereign state.

But Somalia has strongly objected to the move, accusing Ethiopia of violation of international laws, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The matter is still pending with Somalia rejecting Turkish-led mediation efforts, which are yet to materialize.

And on Monday, reports emerged that Ethiopian troops had reportedly taken control of all airports in the Gedo region of Somalia. Gedo region is mostly manned by Ethiopian troops working in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).

Some of the affected airports include the strategic Luuq, Doolow, Bardere, and Garbaharey. The airports are important to the members of the diplomatic Corps, the humanitarian teams, and members of the public who prefer air transport.

This comes as Egypt is set to deploy troops to the border regions, raising tension within the Horn of Africa nation. Somalia had sought help from Egypt, which is also at loggerheads with Ethiopia over the construction of the Grand Renaissance Dam (GERD).

Over the weekend, Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said "We have no desire for conflict or war". Ahmed is a Nobel Peace Prize winner of 2019 but his credentials have been suspect lately due to conflicts in his own country.

Prime Minister Abiy highlighted Ethiopia's peaceful approach towards its neighbors over the past six and a half years, emphasizing the importance of regional stability. He noted that Ethiopia's primary goals are peace, prosperity, and maintaining its sovereignty.

While reaffirming the country's commitment to peace, the Prime Minister also mentioned Ethiopia's readiness to defend itself if necessary. Ethiopia is also battling internal challenges, including inter-tribal wars.

GAROWE ONLINE