Monday April 15, 2024
MOGADISHU, (HOL) — The Federal Republic of Somalia has issued a plea for restraint as tensions escalate in the Middle East, according to a government statement released on April 14, 2024. The Somali government expressed "deep concern" over the recent hostilities, which threaten both regional stability and global peace.
This call for calm follows Iran's unprecedented drone and missile attack on Israeli territory, marking a direct military conflict between the two nations and heightening fears of a broader regional war.
In its statement, Somalia urgently called for an end to Israeli military actions in Gaza and promoted a resolution based on the two-state solution, reiterating its support for the Palestinian right to self-determination and justice. The Somali government urged the international community to swiftly intervene to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict that "threaten not only regional stability but also global peace and security."
Global leaders and international organizations echoed Somalia's sentiments. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, addressing a Security Council meeting convened in response to the strikes, emphasized the critical need to "defuse and de-escalate" the dangerous situation.
Amid these developments, the U.S. has clarified its stance, with President Joe Biden informing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the U.S. will not join any potential Israeli counter-offensive against Iran. This decision highlights a cautious U.S. approach aimed at avoiding further escalation.
Analysts note that the international strategy seems focused on stabilizing the region through diplomacy rather than military action, supporting Israel's defence while urging diplomatic resolutions.