BAIDOA, SOMALIA — OCT,18,2026-Tensions between the Somali Federal Government and Ethiopian military officials have reportedly intensified following unsuccessful discussions over the security situation in Southwest State, particularly in the strategic city of Baidoa.
According to security sources, senior officials from Somalia’s Federal Government recently sought to persuade Ethiopian forces stationed in Southwest State to support efforts against the administration of Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen.
However, the reported request failed to secure Ethiopian cooperation, triggering frustration among senior officials in Mogadishu, who are now said to be considering alternative measures.
Ethiopian Commanders Reject Involvement in Political Conflict
Sources familiar with the discussions claim that talks between representatives of the Somali Federal Government and Ethiopian military commanders ended without an agreement.
The main point of disagreement reportedly centered on Baidoa, where Ethiopian commanders maintained that their forces had no authorization to participate in politically motivated military confrontations.
The Ethiopian side reportedly emphasized that its military presence was intended to support security and stability rather than become involved in internal political disputes between Somalia’s federal and regional authorities.
Ethiopian Officials Warn Against Fighting in Baidoa
Ethiopian military officials also reportedly warned against any armed confrontation inside Baidoa, particularly in sensitive areas stretching from the airport to the presidential compound.
According to the sources, Ethiopian commanders insisted that political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue rather than military force, warning that an escalation could threaten civilian security and regional stability.
Disagreement Over Egyptian Troops and a Turkish Military Base
The reported tensions extend beyond the immediate political dispute in Southwest State.
In recent days, Ethiopia reportedly opposed proposals to deploy Egyptian troops and establish a Turkish military base in areas where Ethiopian forces remain stationed.
Sources claim that Ethiopian officials insisted that no such military arrangements should proceed in those locations until responsibility for security has been formally transferred.
The reported disagreement highlights growing competition over military influence and security arrangements in Somalia.
Hassan Sheikh–Abiy Ahmed Talks Face New Challenges
Several weeks earlier, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reportedly discussed these security and political matters with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
Although the discussions were said to have brought the two sides closer to an understanding, subsequent diplomatic developments, including President Mohamud’s visit to Cairo, reportedly complicated the situation.
The latest developments suggest that Somalia’s relationships with neighboring countries could face renewed challenges as regional governments reassess their security and political interests.
Regional Tensions Raise Concerns Over Somalia’s Political Stability
The reported diplomatic standoff comes amid increasing political tensions between the Federal Government and the Southwest State administration aligned with abdiaziz lafta gareen.
Observers fear that any attempt to resolve the dispute through military confrontation could further destabilize Baidoa and undermine ongoing security efforts in southern Somalia.
Ethiopian commanders are reportedly maintaining their position against involvement in internal political fighting, leaving the Federal Government facing difficult political and security choices.