Iran and Somalia Rebuild Relations After 2016 Diplomatic Break

A Somali man walks in front of the Iranian Red Crescent premises after the government ordered all Iran-related operations to leave within 72 hours in Mogadishu Thomson Reuters

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia - After a period of strained relations following Somalia's decision to cut ties with Iran in 2016, the two nations are now showing signs of reconciliation. The diplomatic thaw between Iran and Somalia was evident during a recent meeting between the foreign ministers of both countries on the sidelines of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Executive Committee summit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

During the meeting, Iran's Acting Foreign Minister, Ali Bagheri Kani, emphasized the Islamic Republic's interest in expanding its ties with Africa, stating that there are no limits to the potential growth of these relationships. This statement comes as Tehran and Mogadishu appear to be mending the rift that has kept them at odds since 2016.

Bagheri Kani met with Somalia's Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, where he underscored Iran's strategic interest in Africa. Fiqi, in turn, voiced his approval of the renewed dialogue and condemned Israel's actions in Palestine, praising Iran's steadfast support for the Palestinian cause. He also highlighted Iran's role in bolstering Somalia's efforts against terrorism, particularly in the fight against the Al-Shabaab insurgency.

The diplomatic break between Iran and Somalia in 2016 was a significant event in the region. Somalia accused Iran of meddling in its internal affairs, a charge that Iran denied. The decision to sever ties aligned Somalia with Saudi Arabia in a broader regional power struggle.

However, recent developments suggest a shift in Somalia's stance towards Iran. For instance, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud extended his condolences to Tehran following the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in May.

Bagheri Kani's outreach to Somalia fits into a more recent pattern of Iran seeking to expand its influence in Africa, particularly as the continent becomes an increasingly important arena in the geopolitical contest between Tehran and its rivals.

As the two countries work towards rebuilding their relationship, it remains to be seen how this will impact the geopolitical dynamics in the region. However, the renewed dialogue between Iran and Somalia is a positive step towards regional stability and cooperation.

GAROWE ONLINE