Government and aviation officials told Hiiraan Online that the flights mark the initial phase of a broader pullout of UAE equipment from the capital, following Somalia’s decision earlier this week to cancel security and defense agreements linked to the Emirates.

Two additional aircraft are expected to arrive in Mogadishu on Friday to complete the removal, the sources said.

Officials briefed on the process said the withdrawal followed disputes between Somali and Emirati authorities over procedures, including documentation and authorization requirements.

UAE officials initially resisted directives from the Somali government, the sources said, but later complied by submitting flight manifests and other required paperwork before clearance was granted.

The drawdown comes days after Somalia’s federal Cabinet voted to annul all security, defense, and cooperative agreements connected to the ports of Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo, citing what it described as serious violations of Somalia’s sovereignty, national unity, and political independence.

The decision followed an investigation by Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency into the alleged unauthorized use of Somali airspace and territory related to the movements of Aidarous al-Zubaidi, head of Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council, a UAE-backed separatist group.

The Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen has accused al-Zubaidi of defying orders to travel to Riyadh for talks and instead mobilizing forces toward Al-Dhale in southwestern Yemen.

Coalition spokesperson Maj. Gen. Turki al-Maliki later alleged that al-Zubaidi fled the southern Yemeni city of Aden by sea before leaving the region by air, with Abu Dhabi facilitating his transit through Somali territory.

According to al-Maliki, al-Zubaidi boarded a flight accompanied by aides “under the supervision of UAE officers.” The Southern Transitional Council has denied the allegation, insisting its leader remains in Aden.

Strains in relations are also unfolding amid a broader diplomatic context. Last month, Israel became the first country to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state—a move Somalia strongly rejected.

Reports citing Israeli officials said the recognition was facilitated by Abu Dhabi, further heightening tensions between Mogadishu and the UAE.

The Emirates has long maintained close economic and security ties with Somaliland, including a $442 million investment by Dubai-based logistics firm DP World to develop and operate the Port of Berbera.

Somalia’s federal government considers Somaliland part of its internationally recognized territory and has repeatedly opposed foreign agreements concluded without its consent.

The visible withdrawal of UAE equipment from Mogadishu underscores a sharp escalation in tensions between the two governments and signals a possible recalibration of the Emirates’ on-the-ground presence in federal Somalia, even as its influence remains strong within regional administrations.

Somali officials say the government remains open to international cooperation, but only under arrangements that fully respect Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and constitutional authority—a stance now being tested as one of Mogadishu’s most influential foreign partners scales back its presence.

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The conference, which brings together government officials, industry leaders, and investors from across the globe, serves as a platform to discuss innovations, challenges, and opportunities in the mining and mineral exploration sector.

On the second day of the event, Minister Dahir Shire Mohamed delivered a keynote address highlighting Somalia’s strategic vision for the development, regulation, and sustainable management of its vast natural resource potential.

He emphasized that the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) is committed to building a transparent, investor-friendly environment to attract both domestic and international investment into the mining and petroleum sectors.

“I had the opportunity to present Somalia’s ongoing efforts to develop and responsibly manage our natural resources. I also encouraged global investors to explore the numerous mining opportunities available in our country,” said Minister Dahir Shire Mohamed.

In his speech, the Minister outlined the government’s key priorities, including:

Strengthening the legal and regulatory frameworks governing mineral and petroleum exploration.

Enhancing transparency and accountability in resource management.

Promoting public-private partnerships (PPPs) to advance infrastructure and technology in the mining industry.

Investing in capacity building and technical training to empower Somali professionals in the extractive sectors.

Minister Dahir Shire also noted that Somalia possesses a wide range of untapped mineral resources — including gold, tin, iron ore, copper, cobalt, platinum, and uranium — which, if properly developed, could play a transformative role in boosting economic growth, job creation, and national revenue.

He stressed that the Somali government is focused on ensuring that resource extraction aligns with principles of environmental protection, sustainability, and community benefit, ensuring that the development of the mining sector contributes meaningfully to national progress.

Following the conference sessions, Minister Dahir Shire and his delegation toured the exhibition area, where they engaged with representatives from international mining companies, universities, and research institutions.

The exhibition showcased cutting-edge technologies, modern geological research tools, and innovative exploration methods aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability in mineral production.

The Minister’s participation in the Fujairah conference underscores Somalia’s growing engagement with the global extractive industry and its ambition to position itself as an emerging destination for responsible mining and energy investment in East Africa.

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He made the remarks during a graduation ceremony for nearly 500 new police officers trained by Puntland, whose passing-out parade took place today in Carmo, Bari region.

“Puntland was established under difficult circumstances after the state collapse,” President Deni said, addressing officers, troops, and Puntland government officials.

Deni noted that 27 years on, Puntland has committed to strengthening and building its own security forces and state institutions.

He praised the United Arab Emirates for supporting Puntland’s institution-building and capacity-strengthening projects.

The president emphasized the need for Puntland to be prepared both internally and externally.

“Puntland and its territories require strong defense; attacks are coming from many sides,” Deni said.

He also expressed concern that Somalia is facing hopelessness, pointing out that clan politics have become entrenched within the state.

President Deni commended the recent success of Puntland forces in the Cal-Miskaad operation against ISIS militants, noting that troops would soon advance into the Cal Madow mountains, where extremist groups are hiding.

Attracting Investment

Deni stated that following the Al-Miskaad operation, Puntland has now drawn international investment interest.

He added that Puntland does not want Somalia to remain in perpetual collapse, but at the same time, Puntland cannot afford to wait if the rest of the country continues to be unstable.

“If other parts of Somalia continue to face crises, areas like Puntland must set an example and, one day, become the safe haven for the country’s future,” Deni said.

His comments come as Puntland continues its fight against ISIS (Somalia), with its forces battling militants in Bari region’s mountains for more than nine months.

At the same time, Puntland is also facing political tensions in Sanaag and Sool, where President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s federal government has recently launched activities challenging Puntland’s authority.

Deadly clashes broke out last month in Sanaag after armed groups opposed to Puntland attempted to hold political gatherings in Dhahar district.

Puntland has also rejected the newly announced Khaatumo administration – now rebranded as the “North East State” – which Mogadishu is backing.

The post Puntland Faces Multi-Front Attacks and Must Defend Itself, Says President Deni appeared first on Kaab TV.

In a statement, the CBUAE said the decision followed extensive investigations that uncovered serious failures in compliance with laws related to Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organizations (AML/CFT).

“The revocation and financial sanction were imposed based on the results of examinations conducted by the CBUAE, which revealed failures and violations of the AML/CFT framework and related regulations,” the statement read.

Who is Sundus Exchange?

Sundus Exchange has been linked to the Somalia-based Haleel Electronics Group and its vast network of subsidiaries in Kenya, Uganda, Cyprus, and Dubai.

The group came under international scrutiny in March 2024, when the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned 16 entities and individuals for allegedly financing al-Shabaab, a terrorist group affiliated with al-Qaeda.

According to OFAC, this network facilitates the laundering and movement of funds for al-Shabaab, enabling its operations across East Africa.

Among the designated companies was Haleel Commodities L.L.C., also known as Haleel Group, headquartered in Dubai.

The U.S. Treasury noted that the Haleel Group’s subsidiaries include: Haleel Finance LTD, Haleel Holdings, and Haleel LTD in Cyprus, Haleel Commodities Limited in Kenya, Haleel Commodities LTD in Uganda, and Haleel Electronics in Somalia.

These companies were identified as financial lifelines for al-Shabaab, which relies on these networks to generate and launder over $100 million annually—funds used to finance terrorist operations and support other al-Qaeda-linked groups worldwide.

This is not the first time Sundus Exchange has been linked to illicit financial activities.

In 2018, Ugandan authorities froze bank accounts associated with Sundus Exchange and a related forex bureau in Kampala due to suspected involvement in money laundering and terrorism financing.

At the time, Kampala Associated Advocates, the firm’s legal representatives, denied the allegations.

The revocation of Sundus Exchange’s license marks a significant step by the UAE in responding to long-standing international criticism over lax financial oversight and the country’s vulnerability to illicit money flows.

The U.S. Treasury’s Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Brian E. Nelson, underscored the global effort to dismantle such networks:

“Today’s action is part of a multifaceted effort by Treasury to support the Somali government’s economic offensive against al-Shabaab—one of three pillars in their campaign to degrade this deadly terrorist group.”

Al-Shabaab remains one of the deadliest terrorist groups in Africa.

Since 2007, its attacks have killed over 3,500 African Union peacekeepers, mostly from Uganda and Burundi, and thousands of Somali civilians.

The group continues to destabilize the region, undermining governance and fueling insecurity through violence and extortion.

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“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, colleagues, and communities of those who were killed while working to assist others in desperate need,” the coalition said in a joint statement.

The attack occurred on Monday night near the town of El Koma in North Darfur province, as the convoy was en route to the city of El Fasher.

The United Nations confirmed the deaths and the destruction of several aid trucks.

According to UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, the convoy — a joint operation by the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF — consisted of 15 trucks and had traveled more than 1,800 kilometers from Port Sudan, carrying vital nutrition and food supplies.

“This horrendous act of violence is devastating,” Dujarric told reporters at a press briefing in New York on Tuesday.

“Multiple trucks were burned, and critical humanitarian supplies were destroyed. This was the first UN humanitarian convoy that was going to make it to El Fasher in over a year.”

The UN said negotiations were underway with local authorities to ensure safe passage to El Fasher when the attack occurred.

The perpetrators of the assault remain unidentified, and Sudan’s rival factions are trading blame.

The ALPS coalition emphasized that attacks on civilians, aid workers, and humanitarian assets constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law.

“We urgently reiterate the need for full respect of international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel,” the statement read. “We call on all parties to allow and facilitate unhindered humanitarian access to people in need.”

Sudan has been engulfed in a brutal civil war since April 2023, when conflict broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The war has displaced millions and has been marked by widespread atrocities, including ethnic violence and mass sexual violence, particularly in Darfur.

The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, with large parts of the population now dependent on aid for survival.

The post U.S., UAE, Switzerland, and Others Condemn Deadly Attack on UN Humanitarian Convoy in Sudan appeared first on Kaab TV.

These accusations are primarily directed at the United Arab Emirates, a former strategic partner now cast by the current administration as a geopolitical adversary.

But here’s the crux of the issue: no evidence has been presented. Not a single document, bank transfer, or verifiable link. Just a barrage of insinuations, false scapegoat and politically convenient soundbites.

For a government that claims to defend Somalia’s sovereignty, this kind of reckless, baseless rhetoric exposes more about its own insecurities than it does about its opponents. These are not principled warnings—they are political distractions.

This isn’t about foreign influence. It’s about domestic pressure. Opposition leaders—many of them former officials, civil servants, and grassroots mobilizers—have returned to Mogadishu to form a united front.

Their timing is no accident. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s government is now past the halfway point of its term, and public patience is wearing thin.

The opposition isn’t calling for revolution. They’re calling for inclusion, transparency, and a credible roadmap toward elections in 2026—something Villa Somalia has so far failed to provide.

Instead of engaging with these demands, federal officials have reverted to a tired strategy: label your critics as foreign agents. Manufacture fear. Weaponize patriotism. But in the absence of facts, these tactics fall flat.

UAE as a Convenient Target

The government’s diplomatic rift with the UAE has been quietly growing for over a year, especially as Mogadishu leans more heavily on Turkey and Qatar.

The Emirates—once seen as key allies—are now portrayed in official messaging as meddlers, despite their continued humanitarian and development footprint in Somalia.

Let’s be honest: every administration in Villa Somalia, including Hassan Sheikh’s, has relied on external partners. Military support, budgetary aid, and diplomatic backing all come from abroad including but not limited, to UAE.

So why is foreign engagement only problematic when it doesn’t pass through the gates of Villa Somalia? This selective outrage is not about sovereignty—it’s about power.

What the Opposition Really Represents

Contrary to the government’s narrative, this growing opposition bloc isn’t foreign-funded—it’s publicly fueled. It reflects the frustrations of ordinary Somalis tired of political theater and eager for real accountability. It channels calls for meaningful decentralization, clarity on federalism, and an electoral process free of manipulation.

Labeling such calls as externally driven is not only dishonest—it’s dangerous. It undermines trust in democratic processes and sends a chilling message: dissent equals betrayal.

But Somalis are not naïve. They’ve lived through decades of manipulation and conflict. They can spot political projection when they see it. What the Opposition Really Represents

Contrary to the government’s narrative, this growing opposition bloc isn’t foreign-funded—it’s publicly fueled. It reflects the frustrations of ordinary Somalis tired of political theater and eager for real accountability. It channels calls for meaningful decentralization, clarity on federalism, and an electoral process free of manipulation.

Labeling such calls as externally driven is not only dishonest—it’s dangerous. It undermines trust in democratic processes and sends a chilling message: dissent equals betrayal.

But Somalis are not naïve. They’ve lived through decades of manipulation and conflict. They can spot political projection when they see it.

A Government Losing Its Moral Ground

In accusing its opponents without proof, the federal government is not defending national unity—it is eroding institutional credibility.

You cannot build a democracy by silencing opposition, stoking fear, and calling every critic a traitor. If the administration truly believes in its mandate, it should welcome political competition—not criminalize it.

If it fears the opposition, it should ask itself why. Because when you attack without evidence, people start to wonder what you’re trying to hide.

Final Word: A Fight for Somalia’s Future

This moment is bigger than party politics. It’s about whether Somalia chooses a path of open democracy—or a closed loop of paranoia and power consolidation.

The government’s latest smear campaign is a sign of weakness, not strength. It knows it cannot win on merit, so it resorts to dirty tricks. The opposition must remain steadfast, and the Somali people must see through these tactics.

The road to 2026 will be fraught with government-backed disinformation and intimidation. The 2026 election will not only test candidates—it will test whether Villa Somalia is willing to let the people decide.

The opposition’s movement must be rooted in the national interest, not foreign agendas—and no amount of propaganda will change that. If the opposition stays united and the public remains vigilant, Somalia may yet see a democratic transition—as demanded by its own citizens.

The clock is ticking. And smokescreens won’t stop the reckoning.

_

Abdirahman Jeylani Mohamed is a journalist and the Director of Arlaadi Media Network. You can reach him on X (Twitter) @JaylaaniJr.

The post Fear of Defeat: Why Somalia’s Government Is Targeting the Opposition with Foreign Agenda Claims appeared first on Kaab TV.

“Somaliland is a region within Somalia with grievances we seek to resolve through dialogue,” said Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, reaffirming Mogadishu’s stance that Somaliland remains part of Somalia.

Earlier this month, President Irro was given a prominent platform at the Dubai summit, where he called on the international community to recognize Somaliland as an independent state.

Initially, Somalia downplayed the visit, comparing it to trips made by leaders of its federal states.

However, Foreign Minister Fiqi has now made it clear that Mogadishu will not ignore what it sees as interference in its sovereignty.

“Somalia will not tolerate interference,” he said, adding that the government is taking steps to address its relations with the UAE.

He did not specify what measures Mogadishu intends to take.

Diplomatic Fallout Over Somaliland’s International Recognition Bid

Irro’s visit, his first foreign trip since taking office, has escalated diplomatic tensions between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi.

His state-level reception in the UAE has been seen as an implicit challenge to Somalia’s territorial integrity.

During the summit, President Irro addressed representatives from over 30 governments, highlighting Somaliland’s strategic location and governance as key reasons for international recognition.

He also spoke alongside Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, which holds a 51% stake in Somaliland’s Port of Berbera—a key infrastructure project strengthening UAE-Somaliland ties.

In his speech, Irro also referenced the potential for U.S. recognition, stating:

Somaliland President @Abdirahmanirro leveraged his platform at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on Tuesday to advocate for Somaliland’s international recognition. pic.twitter.com/yoVZgZY5t1

— Kaab TV (@KaabTV) February 12, 2025

“We have strong relations with the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. Given our democratic governance, we hope the international community will acknowledge Somaliland’s sovereignty.”

“We hope that the United States may be the first country to recognize Somaliland,” he added, alluding to the anticipated foreign policy stance of U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

Relations between the UAE and Somalia’s federal government have been at their lowest point in recent years, with Abu Dhabi strengthening direct engagements with Somaliland and Puntland—two regions that have distanced themselves from Mogadishu’s central authority.

While Mogadishu has yet to outline specific countermeasures, its warning signals a deepening diplomatic rift over Somaliland’s growing international outreach.

The post Somalia Threatens Action Against UAE Over Somaliland appeared first on Kaab TV.

Addressing representatives from over 30 world governments, he emphasized Somaliland’s strategic location and governance as key factors warranting global recognition.

The summit, hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), brought together world leaders, business executives, influential figures, tech entrepreneurs, and investors.

During a panel discussion alongside Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, which holds a 51% stake in Somaliland’s Port of Berbera, President Irro reiterated Somaliland’s geopolitical importance.

“Given the current situation in the Horn of Africa, Somaliland holds a highly strategic position with 850 kilometers of coastline along the Gulf of Aden. Somaliland gained independence on June 26, 1960, but later chose to merge with Greater Somalia. However, on May 18, 1991, we decided to reclaim our sovereignty,” he stated.

Somaliland President @Abdirahmanirro leveraged his platform at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on Tuesday to advocate for Somaliland’s international recognition. pic.twitter.com/yoVZgZY5t1

— Kaab TV (@KaabTV) February 12, 2025

Despite the lack of formal recognition, Irro highlighted that many nations already engage with Somaliland as a separate entity.

“Somaliland is a democratic nation that holds elections and ensures peaceful transfers of power. We expect recognition from the international community based on our governance and stability,” he added.

Prospects of U.S. Recognition

President Irro also addressed the possibility of U.S. recognition, mentioning the anticipated stance of U.S. President Donald Trump.

“We have strong relations with the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. Given our democratic governance, we hope the international community will acknowledge Somaliland’s sovereignty,” he said.

“We hope that the United States may be the first country to recognize Somaliland,” he added.

Speaking at the same session, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem clarified DP World’s business-driven approach to its investment in Berbera Port.

“Our decision to invest in Berbera was not political; it was purely based on business potential. Africa is essential for us—Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, and Ethiopia are key trade partners for Dubai, and significant exports go to these countries,” he explained.

Notably, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was not invited to the summit. Adding to the diplomatic strain, three Somalia Federal Government ministers were reportedly disinvited after their names were mistakenly labeled as “Somaliland ministers,” sparking outrage in Mogadishu.

Relations between Somalia and the UAE have been tense, with Abu Dhabi scaling up direct engagement with both Somaliland and Puntland, bypassing the Somali federal government.

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The three-day visit underscored the growing diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two sides.

Upon his return, President Irro and his delegation were warmly received in Hargeisa by Vice President Ambassador Mohamed Ali Aw-Abdi, alongside senior government officials, highlighting the visit’s significance in advancing bilateral relations.

In a statement, Somaliland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that “President Irro engaged in productive discussions with senior Emirati leaders, focusing on expanding economic collaboration and enhancing investment opportunities across key sectors, including livestock, agriculture, minerals, energy, and infrastructure.”

“The Somaliland government reaffirms the UAE’s role as a valued economic and development partner and expresses confidence in the prospects for deeper cooperation,” the ministry added.

The visit marks a key milestone in strengthening Somaliland-UAE relations.

According to government officials, discussions are expected to pave the way for increased investment and strategic partnerships, fostering long-term economic growth and development.

The post President Irro Concludes UAE Visit, Strengthening Somaliland-UAE Ties appeared first on Kaab TV.

His visit coincides with the ongoing trip of Somaliland’s current President, Abdirahman Irro, to the UAE.

President Irro, who arrived in Dubai on Sunday, is engaged in a three-day official visit.

According to Somaliland presidential spokesperson Hussein Aden Igeh, President Irro is scheduled to meet with UAE leaders to discuss bilateral relations and other issues of mutual interest.

Additionally, he will address the Somaliland diaspora during an important meeting in the UAE.

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