MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – The British ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, has directly engaged with President Muse Bihi Abdi of Somaliland, placing a call to “express deep concern on the escalating situation in Laascaanood.”
In a significant setback for Somaliland, a resolute local force comprising Dhulbahante fighters dealt a substantial blow on Friday by wresting control of nearly all Somaliland army bases near Laascaanood.
This monumental victory came at the culmination of an arduous nine-month battle marked by ruthless confrontations and unrelenting shelling.
Spoke to President @musebiihi to express deep concern on the escalating situation in Laascaanood. 🇬🇧 urges all sides to exercise restraint, abide by international humanitarian law and ensure unhindered humanitarian access to those in need. A ceasefire and dialogue are critical.
— Mike Nithavrianakis (@MikeNith1) August 27, 2023
Alarming statistics from international humanitarian organizations underscore the gravity of the situation: over 200,000 individuals have been displaced, and the death toll surpasses 150,000 due to the fierce clashes between Somaliland forces and the pro-Somalia Khaatumo group.
Mike Nithavrianakis, who assumed his role as the United Kingdom’s ambassador to Somalia in May, emphasizes the urgency of exercising restraint among all parties involved.
His statement echoes a fervent call for strict adherence to international humanitarian law and an unwavering commitment to ensuring unhindered access for humanitarian aid to those in dire need.
“A ceasefire and dialogue are critical,” Nithavrianakis writes in his Twitter posting on Sunday.
Despite this plea, President Muse Bihi offered a contrasting stance on Saturday. He affirmed his administration’s resolute dedication to reclaiming territorial borders, signaling an impending surge in armed confrontations within the already embattled region of Sool.
In response, Khaatumo leaders have outlined their intention to fortify their border with Somaliland. Concurrently, their ambition to establish a new Somali federal member state, anchored in the city of Laascaanood, comes into focus as they navigate the complex landscape of regional dynamics.