Six countries, Somali Americans call for end to violence in breakaway Somaliland

Six countries have issued a joint statement expressing concern over escalating fighting in the northern breakaway region of Somaliland, as also Somali-American demonstrators called for an unconditional cessation of hostilities.

Qatar, Somalia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States have expressed concern over fighting around a disputed town in Somaliland, where at least 34 people were killed in clashes in early February. Tension has risen between Somaliland and local clan forces in Lascanood since the end of last year, and heavy fighting has broken out around the town, which straddles a key trade route. Local militias are fighting to pull three regions away from Somaliland in order to rejoin Somalia. Cease-fire calls have so far been ignored.

“The partners expressed concern about the ongoing conflict in and around Lascanood and called on all parties to adhere to the ceasefire, de-escalate, allow unhindered humanitarian access, and engage in constructive and peaceful dialogue,” the joint statement read.

Meanwhile, Somali-American demonstrators from across the United States have called for attention to the violence after three weeks of clashes left over 100 people dead and more than 500 wounded. Carrying the Somali flag, banners, and placards, the demonstrators gathered in front of the Department of State, chanting anti-war slogans in support of the victims of the fighting in Las Anod, the capital of Sool. The demonstrators were concerned about the suffering of the people in Las Anod because they want to withdraw from Somaliland and be governed by Somalia to the south. The demonstrators also marched toward Djibouti’s Washington embassy, accusing that nation of supporting Somaliland in the fight.