Ethiopian military chief criticizes Somali leaders, vows to counter threats to national development

Ethiopian military chief criticizes Somali leaders, vows to counter threats to national development

Source: Saturday September 7, 2024

Jigjiga (HOL) — Ethiopian National Defence Forces (ENDF) Commander Field Marshal Birhanu Jula has vowed that Ethiopian troops are prepared to defend the nation’s sovereignty and counter any potential threats, accusing Somali leaders of collaborating with Ethiopia’s adversaries.

The commander made the remarks during the 47th-anniversary celebration of Ethiopia’s eastern command forces, held in Jigjiga, Somali regional state this week.

Field Marshal Birhanu warned against what he called “historical enemies” aiming to hinder Ethiopia’s development, with the support of internal mercenaries and traitors.

He emphasized the military’s ongoing commitment to regional peace, particularly in Somalia, where Ethiopian troops have been involved in anti-terrorist operations.

Diplomatic tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have been escalating since Ethiopia signed a controversial deal in January to lease 20 kilometers of Somaliland’s coastline in exchange for recognition of Somaliland’s independence. Mogadishu has condemned the agreement as a violation of its territorial sovereignty and retaliated by expelling the Ethiopian ambassador and threatening to remove Ethiopian troops stationed in Somalia.

The situation was further complicated by recent reports that Egypt delivered weapons to Somalia under a defense agreement. Ethiopia views the growing cooperation between Somalia and Egypt as a major threat, particularly given Egypt’s concerns over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and water rights on the Nile.