Somalia condemns Iran after missiles against Qatar

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia has condemned the Islamic regime of Iran for conducting missiles against the US military bases in Qatar, noting that the conduct amounts to a violation of international law and the airspace of Qatar, a key economic hub within the Middle East.

The attack, Somalia said in a statement, triggers instability within the Horn of Africa and the Middle East, adding that there is a need for dialogue to dispel disputes involving Americans, Israel, and Iran, which is the reason behind the onslaught.

The statement issued by Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed full support to the people of Qatar after the violation of their airspace while supporting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Middle Eastern country.

“Somalia remains firmly committed to a rules-based international order, founded on respect for national sovereignty, the inviolability of borders, and the peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and mutual understanding,” the statement said.

The government urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and called on the international community to unite in upholding peace and respect for the sovereignty of nations.

As a retaliatory move against the US's recent attack on its nuclear power sites, Iran targeted Al Udeid Air Base, located about 30 kilometres southwest of Doha, Qatar, which is one of the most important US military bases in the Middle East.

The base is home to nearly 10,000 American troops and also hosts forces from the UK, Australia, and other allied countries, Reuters reports. It currently serves as a strategic command and logistics centre for US operations in Iraq and features the Gulf region’s longest runway.

Also known as Abu Nakhla Air Base, Al Udeid serves as the forward headquarters for the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees American military operations in the Middle East and parts of Asia.

President Donald Trump said Iran fired 14 missiles at the air base, calling it "a very weak response, which we expected, and have very effectively countered."

"I am pleased to report that NO Americans were harmed and hardly any damage was done," Trump wrote. "Most importantly, they’ve gotten it all out of their 'system,' and there will, hopefully, be no further HATE," Trump wrote.

GAROWE ONLINE