UN Authorizes Mission to Combat al-Shabaab in Somalia
The United Nations has given the green light for a new African peacekeeping mission to tackle the al-Qaida-linked group al-Shabaab in Somalia. This decision comes amidst uncertainty surrounding the participation of Ethiopian troops in the operation. The UN Security Council passed a resolution on Friday, permitting the deployment of up to 12,626 personnel to assist the Somali government in its ongoing battle against al-Shabaab militants. The current peacekeeping force, known as the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (Atmis), which is set to conclude its mandate by year-end, will be succeeded by a more streamlined African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (Aussom). These two forces follow the African Union Mission In Somalia (Amisom), the largest, longest-running, and deadliest peacekeeping mission in history.
Concerns and Controversies
Al-Shabaab, a jihadist group with ties to Ethiopia’s 2006 incursion into Somalia, continues to carry out frequent deadly assaults in Somalia and neighboring Kenya. In August, the group launched a brutal attack on a beach in Mogadishu, resulting in nearly 40 fatalities and over 200 injuries. While the UK’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, James Kariuki, praised the resolution for bolstering Somalia’s fight against al-Shabaab, there are lingering uncertainties regarding Ethiopia’s role in the mission. Ethiopia has historically been a significant contributor to previous peacekeeping endeavors and is also a primary target of al-Shabaab attacks.
Regional Tensions and Diplomatic Efforts
Somalia and Ethiopia have been embroiled in a prolonged dispute over a maritime agreement between Ethiopia and the separatist region of Somaliland. This deal, which Somaliland officials claim could lead to Ethiopia being the first nation to recognize their statehood, has been vehemently opposed by Somali authorities. Amidst these tensions, the Turkish president facilitated a reconciliation pact known as the Ankara declaration between Somalia and Ethiopia, aiming to address Ethiopia’s sea access concerns. Despite the agreement, Somalia hinted at potentially replacing Ethiopian troops in the peacekeeping mission with forces from other nations, including Egypt.
Expert Insights and Political Maneuvering
Analysts suggest that Somalia’s stance on Ethiopia’s involvement in the mission serves as a bargaining chip in ongoing negotiations. While the Ankara declaration signaled a commitment to dialogue, Somalia appears reluctant to include Ethiopian troops as long as the maritime deal with Somaliland remains intact. Recent allegations of Ethiopian troops attacking Somali armed forces in Jubbaland further strained relations between the two nations. Somali parliament member Ayub Ismail Yusuf urged the government to exclude Ethiopia from the peacekeeping force, citing sovereignty concerns.
In conclusion, the UN’s authorization of the new peacekeeping mission reflects a critical juncture in the fight against al-Shabaab in Somalia. The complexities of regional geopolitics, diplomatic disputes, and security challenges underscore the intricate dynamics at play in this evolving situation. As stakeholders navigate these complexities, the fate of Ethiopian involvement in the mission remains a focal point of contention and negotiation.