MOGADISHU, Somalia (Horn post) – The international community has issued urgent warnings over escalating violence and armed clashes in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, saying the situation was preventable and could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s political future.
The U.S. Embassy in Somalia described the ongoing unrest as “unwise” and urged Somali leaders across all sides to take responsibility for maintaining stability and resolving disputes peacefully.
“Somalian leaders across all sides have a responsibility to preserve stability and resolve disputes through peaceful means,” the embassy said in a statement posted on X, adding that actions taken in the coming hours and days could have lasting consequences for Somalia’s security, unity, and future.
“Actions taken in the coming hours and days may have lasting consequences affecting Somalia’s security, unity, and future,” it added.
European Partners Call for Dialogue and Electoral Agreement
In a joint statement, Austria, Belgium, the European Union delegation, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) expressed deep concern over the situation.
The partners urged all parties to immediately resume dialogue and reach agreement on the electoral process in line with the interests of the Somali people.
“They call on all sides to urgently begin talks and quickly reach an agreement on the electoral framework, in accordance with the interests of the Somali people,” the statement said.
The group also said it remained ready to support Somali-led dialogue if requested.
African Union and IGAD Express Concern
The African Union (AU) said it was “deeply concerned” about security developments in Mogadishu, including reports of armed confrontations in civilian-populated areas.
The AU encouraged continued efforts by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and political stakeholders to advance national dialogue, reconciliation, and consensus-building for political stability. It said it would continue monitoring the situation closely and remain ready to support peace and security operations in Somalia.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) also expressed concern over rising political tensions, warning they could threaten Somalia’s stability.
“Preserving peace, stability, national unity, and state-building gains is a top priority at this critical moment,” IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu said, urging all stakeholders to prioritize national interests through dialogue and compromise.
Political Tensions and Renewed Clashes in Mogadishu
Somalia’s political crisis has intensified amid disputes over the electoral process and governance framework. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s term was originally set to end on May 15 but was extended by one year, a move the opposition has rejected as unconstitutional.
Opposition groups have called for protests, further heightening tensions in the capital.
Residents reported hearing heavy gunfire across several districts late Wednesday night and into Thursday morning. Security forces said they were conducting operations targeting armed militias allegedly responsible for mortar attacks in parts of the city.
Banadir regional police chief Mahdi Omar Mumin said in a Facebook post that security forces were carrying out operations aimed at neutralizing armed groups.
Situation Remains Tense but Stabilizing
While the security situation in Mogadishu remains fragile, officials said the city was calmer on Thursday compared to the previous night of heavy gunfire and clashes.
The latest unrest comes amid growing uncertainty over Somalia’s electoral roadmap and concerns that unresolved political disputes could further destabilize the country.
Clashes reportedly occurred near the residences of former Prime Ministers Hassan Ali Khaire and former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, both of whom accused the government of excessive use of force. The government, however, claimed armed groups attacked a police facility in Mogadishu’s Howlwadaag district.
Authorities say investigations into the incidents are ongoing as diplomatic pressure mounts for a peaceful political resolution.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
Mogadishu, Somalia
