Wednesday June 7, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reaffirmed its commitment to Somalia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence, and unity amidst
escalating conflict in the Sool region, with particular concern for the city of Las Anod, also known as Laascaanood. The city has been the epicentre of a violent dispute between the self-declared state of Somaliland and local militia from the Dhulbahante clan since February 6.
The longstanding disagreement over Las Anod, which is geographically situated between Somaliland and Puntland, a semi-autonomous region in Somalia's northeast, has resulted in an ongoing conflict. The council expressed concern over the resulting large number of civilian casualties, estimated at 299 deaths, over 1,913 injured, and the displacement of more than 150,000 people.
"The members of the Security Council expressed deep concern about the loss of life and injuries sustained in Laascaanood in December 2022, when protests were quelled by 'Somaliland' security forces," the UNSC press statement read. "The members of the Security Council reminded all parties of their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, as applicable."
A series of high-profile assassinations, including the killing of Abdifatah Abdullahi Abdi 'Hadrawi,' a prominent figure in Somaliland's opposition Wadani party, sparked widespread protests.
The situation spiralled on February 6 when the Dhulbahante clan declared autonomy from the Somaliland government, leading to a retreat and repositioning of Somaliland forces about 50km westwards. They reportedly launch attacks from their new positions on the outskirts of Las Anod.
The UNSC members "called for the immediate withdrawal of 'Somaliland' security forces and called on all parties to exercise restraint and to refrain from provocative actions, incitement to violence, and inflammatory rhetoric." They reminded all parties of their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law.
"The members of the Security Council welcomed efforts and initiatives by the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), Ethiopia and clan elders to secure a ceasefire and promote inclusive, Somali-owned national dialogue," the statement added, underscoring the urgency of peaceful conflict resolution.
The UNSC expressed alarm over the humanitarian implications of the crisis, exacerbated by a severe drought in 2022. "The members of the Security Council expressed concern about the impact of the violence on the humanitarian situation in Laascaanood and the Sool region, compounding the displacement and hardship caused by the drought in 2022," the statement highlighted. The council called for the unhindered provision of humanitarian aid, urging all donors to scale up their assistance.
In a further call to action, the UNSC requested access for explosive ordnance disposal teams to assist with removing explosive remnants, highlighting the additional threat posed by unexploded devices.
A United Nations Panel of Experts on Somalia
investigated potential violations of the longstanding arms embargo and breaches of international humanitarian law in the escalating conflict in Las Anod. Preliminary findings suggest weapons and ammunition may originate from various countries, raising additional concerns for regional stability and security.