MOGADISHU — Somalia on Tuesday reaffirmed its strong support for Arab unity and regional security during an emergency ministerial meeting of the Arab League, held by videoconference amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
Somalia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Hassan Mohamed Ali, represented the country at the meeting, which was convened at the request of Bahrain to address what it described as escalating attacks attributed to Iran against Arab states.
In a statement delivered during the session, Somalia expressed “full solidarity” with Arab countries facing security threats, strongly condemning actions it said undermine regional stability and violate international norms.
“Somalia stands firmly with its Arab partners in confronting threats to sovereignty and security,” Ali said, calling for a unified and coordinated response to protect member states and preserve peace in the region.
The emergency talks come against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions, with concerns growing over maritime security, cross-border attacks, and the risk of wider regional escalation. Ministers discussed a draft resolution urging Iran to adhere to international law, respect the sovereignty of neighboring states, and refrain from actions that could further destabilize the region.
Somalia also used the platform to reiterate its commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter, including respect for territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Officials highlighted the strategic importance of safeguarding international shipping routes, particularly in waterways linking the Red Sea and the Gulf, which are vital for global trade and energy supplies. Somalia warned that disruptions to these corridors could have far-reaching economic consequences beyond the region.
“Ensuring the security of maritime routes is a shared responsibility that requires collective action,” Ali said, urging closer coordination between Arab states and international partners.
Somalia further emphasized that Arab unity remains a “strategic necessity,” calling on member states to adopt a common position in addressing security challenges and defending the rules-based international order.
Analysts say Somalia’s participation reflects its efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties with Arab countries and assert a more active role in regional affairs, as it continues to rebuild state institutions after decades of conflict.
The meeting concluded with calls for intensified diplomatic engagement and collective measures aimed at reducing tensions, reinforcing stability, and preventing further escalation in the Middle East.
