Somalia’s Ministry of Defence has detained military personnel seen in a viral social media video allegedly desecrating the United States flag, describing the incident as “unacceptable conduct” that does not reflect the values or professionalism of the Somali National Army (SNA).
The video, which circulated widely online, showed individuals wearing Somali National Army uniforms stepping on and disrespecting the American flag, prompting public criticism and concern over its potential diplomatic implications.
In a statement, the Ministry of Defence strongly condemned the actions of those involved, stressing that their behavior was entirely inconsistent with the discipline, professionalism, and values expected of members of the Somali armed forces.
“The conduct displayed in the video is unacceptable and does not represent the values, discipline, or official position of the Somali National Army or the Federal Government of Somalia,” the ministry said.
The ministry confirmed that the soldiers seen in the footage have been taken into custody and that a formal investigation has been launched to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Officials said appropriate legal and disciplinary measures will be taken against those found responsible.
The government also sought to reassure international partners that the incident does not reflect Somalia’s official policy or its relationship with the United States.
“These actions were carried out by individuals acting on their own and do not represent the Federal Government of Somalia or the Ministry of Defence. Somalia remains committed to its longstanding partnership with the United States,” the statement added.
The United States is one of Somalia’s closest security partners, providing military training, intelligence support, and counterterrorism assistance to Somali forces in operations against Al-Shabaab and ISIS.
Officials said the government remains committed to preserving that partnership while enforcing accountability and professionalism within the Somali National Army.
