Somalia probes alleged illegal use of airspace for flights linked to Yemeni leader, Israeli foreign minister

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s federal government said it has launched an investigation into reports that the country’s airspace was used unlawfully for a flight carrying South Yemen leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi, who is said to be traveling on behalf of the United Arab Emirates.

In a statement, the immigration agency said that if the allegations are confirmed, the incident would constitute a serious violation of Somali law and national sovereignty. Authorities said legal action would be taken against any individuals or entities found to be involved.

The government also said the unverified flight, which it described as illegal, was accompanied by another aircraft carrying Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Sa’ar, who arrived on a visit that Somalia said had not received proper authorization.

The incident has raised questions about the government’s response to foreign officials whose actions Somalia says undermine its sovereignty, particularly as authorities say they are prepared to take action if allegations involve a political figure accused of fleeing his own country.

Somali officials did not immediately provide further details on the investigation or clarify what measures, if any, had been taken regarding the visit by the Israeli foreign minister.

GAROWE ONLINE