Mogadishu (KAAB TV) – Former Somali Presidents Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and Sharif Sheikh Ahmed have issued strong condemnations following Iran’s missile strike on a U.S. military base located in Qatar. The unprecedented attack, which took place late last night, has sparked concern among regional and international leaders about escalating tensions in the Gulf and the broader Middle East.
In their respective public statements, both former heads of state described the Iranian attack as a reckless and unacceptable act that threatens regional peace and violates international law. They emphasized their support for Qatar, a long-time ally of Somalia, and expressed solidarity with the Qatari government and its people.
Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo’s Statement
Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, who served as Somalia’s president from 2017 to 2022, took to Facebook to express his outrage at the missile strike. He denounced the Iranian action as a blatant violation of international norms and a dangerous provocation.
“I strongly condemn Iran’s aggressive attack on the sovereign territory of Qatar. Launching missiles at a peaceful nation is not only a violation of international law, but it also risks further destabilizing an already volatile region,” Farmaajo stated. “Such acts of aggression must stop immediately. Iran must be held accountable for its actions and urged to pursue diplomatic solutions instead of military escalation.”
Sharif Sheikh Ahmed’s Response
Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, who led Somalia from 2009 to 2012, echoed similar sentiments in a statement posted on his official website. He framed the missile attack as an infringement upon the sovereignty of a brotherly nation and a breach of the United Nations Charter.
“I unequivocally condemn Iran’s missile aggression against the territory of our brotherly nation, Qatar. This act constitutes a clear violation of international law and undermines efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region,” said Sharif Sheikh Ahmed. “The Somali people stand in solidarity with the government and people of Qatar during this difficult time. We support Qatar’s right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Broader Somali Response
The condemnation by Somalia’s former leaders follows a similar statement from the current Somali federal government, which also strongly denounced Iran’s missile strike. Government officials labeled the attack as an escalation that could have serious consequences for regional and international security.
As global powers urge restraint and diplomatic engagement, Somalia has joined the growing chorus of nations calling for de-escalation and the preservation of regional stability in the Gulf.