By Horn Africa News
MOGADISHU — Tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia are rising amid growing concerns over foreign military deployments in Somalia.
Ethiopia has warned that it is closely monitoring incoming Egyptian forces, while Egyptian military officials arrived in Mogadishu on Sunday to assess potential deployment locations and operational areas.
The rivalry between the two nations is rooted in long-standing disputes over the Nile River waters, particularly Ethiopia’s controversial Grand Renaissance Dam. Ethiopia views Egypt’s military presence in Somalia as a strategic threat to its regional and maritime interests.
Security analyst Matan Ali Hassan underscored Somalia’s sovereignty, stressing that the country has the right to determine which foreign forces assist with its security. Speaking to the local media, Hassan also criticized the presence of Ethiopian troops in Somalia, calling their deployment illegal and calling for their withdrawal.
Hassan warned that the ongoing rivalry between Egypt and Ethiopia could further destabilize Somalia, as the two regional powers compete for influence amid continuing conflicts.
