Houthi attacks against ships in Red Sea, dangerous to Somalia - diplomat

NAIROBI, Kenya - Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, Somalia’s ambassador to Kenya, says the attacks by Houthi rebels along the Red Sea against commercial ships could have negative consequences for the economy and security of the country if no action is taken.

In an interview with The EastAfrica, Jabril said the attacks would impact badly on the economy of Somalia, which has struggled to pick for decades. Further, he adds, terrorism activities could be on the surge within the region.

"We are concerned about issues related to terrorism, economic sabotage, and the possibility of Al Shabaab acquiring more weapons and illegal ammunition from the Houthis via sea routes," he added.

Houthi rebels have been waging attacks against commercial ships along the Red Sea and Indian Ocean, at times paving the way for pirates, who have also returned to Somalia waters. The pirates have seized several cargo ships in Somali waters.

However, the Ambassador emphasized that Ethiopian intervention in Somalia is not the only way to counter the Houthi threat. He accused Ethiopia of insincerity and disrespect to Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"Ethiopia's move is empowering an environment where Al Shabaab can use Ethiopia's 'annexation tool' as a recruitment tool. We have already seen that last month, Al Shabaab claimed they were recruiting over 5,000 youth because it claimed the Somali government was incapable of defending Somali territory. Houthis and Al Shabaab joining hands will have a huge implication beyond Somalia," he underscored.

A diplomatic dispute arose between Ethiopia and Somalia after Ethiopia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, a breakaway Somali territory, in January 2024. The MoU grants the landlocked country access to the Red Sea through the port of Berbera.

GAROWE ONLINE