Tensions Surge as Somalia Accuses Ethiopia of Weapon Smuggling

Somalia has accused Ethiopia of illegitimate smuggling of weapons, raising fears of arms falling into the hands of Islamist militants. The accusations come amidst a broader political discord involving Ethiopia's plans to build a port in Somaliland and Somalia's increasing closeness to Egypt.

In a fresh diplomatic spat, Somalia on Tuesday accused Ethiopia of smuggling weapons into its territory, heightening concerns that such arms could be seized by Islamist militants. This accusation followed the recent unloading of heavy weaponry in Mogadishu by an Egyptian warship, marking the second shipment since an August security pact.

The tension is further complicated by Ethiopia's plan to build a port in Somaliland, a region seeking sovereignty. Somalia has condemned the plan, threatening to expel Ethiopian troops if it proceeds. This has seemingly brought Somalia and Egypt closer, as Egypt has long-standing disagreements with Ethiopia over a Nile River dam.

Concerned about the possible flow of weapons to militants, an analyst at the Sahan Research think-tank highlighted the risk of arms falling into the hands of al Shabaab insurgents. As Somalia continues to contest the allegations against Ethiopia, the situation remains volatile, reflecting broader regional power dynamics.

(With inputs from agencies.)