By HAN News Desk
DOHA — Somalia’s Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi has warned that the federal government will not tolerate any actions that undermine the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, or national dignity.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera Net on the sidelines of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026), Fiqi said Somalia remains firmly committed to defending its independence against any external interference.
The minister said the Somali government’s recent decision to suspend all agreements with the United Arab Emirates followed what he described as violations that directly affected Somalia’s sovereignty. He stressed that all foreign military bases operating in Somalia must be under the authority of the federal government and function with full respect for the country’s national sovereignty.
Fiqi acknowledged that the UAE had previously provided support to Somalia’s armed forces but said that assistance ended nearly two years ago. He added that, in several instances, such support had not been channeled through official government institutions.
Addressing foreign interest in maintaining a military presence in Somalia, the defense minister said it was driven by counterterrorism and anti-piracy efforts, Somalia’s strategic location along vital maritime routes such as the Gulf of Aden and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, as well as interest in the country’s natural resources, including oil, minerals, and fisheries.
Fiqi also reiterated that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia, warning that any agreements entered into unilaterally by the region are unconstitutional and violate international law. He cautioned that recognizing Somaliland could trigger renewed instability and undermine ongoing state-building efforts.
The defense minister expressed serious concern over what he described as attempts by Israel to engage in Somaliland-related affairs, warning that such moves could threaten Somalia’s unity and sovereignty. He alleged that Israel seeks to exploit the region’s strategic location without regard for local interests and cited reports suggesting plans to relocate displaced Palestinians to the area.
