MOGADISHU — The United Kingdom and the United States have expressed deep concern over renewed armed clashes and political violence in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, urging all parties to immediately exercise restraint and return to dialogue.
In a statement issued by the British Embassy in Somalia, the UK described the overnight violence in parts of the capital as “unacceptable,” warning that continued instability risks undermining fragile security gains achieved in recent years.
“We call on all parties to exercise restraint and engage in meaningful and inclusive dialogue to resolve tensions peacefully,” the statement said, adding that political disputes and security disagreements must not be settled through armed confrontation.
The UK reiterated that sustained political dialogue and compromise remain the only viable path toward addressing Somalia’s recurring political and security crises.
The comments come amid rising international concern following reports of renewed armed confrontations in Mogadishu, which have triggered fear among civilians and disrupted daily life in several districts of the capital.
Separately, the United States also voiced strong concern over the deteriorating security situation, warning that the escalation of violence poses serious risks to Somalia’s stability, unity, and long-term political trajectory.
In a statement attributed to the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu, Washington said all Somali political actors bear responsibility for safeguarding peace and avoiding actions that could further inflame tensions.
“All Somali leaders across the political spectrum have a duty to preserve stability and resolve their differences peacefully,” the statement said.
The U.S. further cautioned that decisions taken in the coming days could have lasting consequences for Somalia’s security and political future, urging all sides to show restraint and prioritize dialogue.
The joint international appeals follow reports of intermittent fighting and armed standoffs in parts of Mogadishu, which have heightened anxiety among residents.
Local sources reported sporadic gunfire and security operations in some neighbourhoods, with some civilians reportedly displaced, although the full scale of casualties remains unclear.
International partners have repeatedly urged Somali leaders to avoid escalation and prioritize political dialogue, warning that continued cycles of confrontation risk reversing progress toward stabilization and state-building efforts.
