MOGADISHU, Somalia — November 10, 2026-Somalia’s Federal Government has repeatedly warned of foreign interference in the country’s internal affairs, accusing unnamed external actors of undermining national sovereignty, security, and political stability.
The warnings have intensified in recent days, with senior Somali officials raising concerns about foreign involvement.
Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi reportedly raised the issue during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Wang Yu, warning of foreign actors allegedly threatening Somalia’s state institutions and national security.
Meanwhile, Speaker of Parliament Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur, speaking in Jowhar, accused foreign-backed groups of pursuing an agenda aimed at weakening Somalia’s federal government.
Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has also previously warned of foreign interference, particularly regarding support for Somaliland’s independence aspirations.
Three countries have emerged at the center of the debate over alleged foreign interference:
1. United Arab Emirates
The UAE faces growing scrutiny over its relationships with Puntland, Jubaland, and Somaliland.
Former Somali intelligence chief Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sanbalolshe recently alleged that leaders from these administrations met in the UAE, raising questions about Abu Dhabi’s involvement in Somalia’s political disputes.
The UAE also maintains significant commercial interests in Somali ports, including Berbera and Bosaso, despite the Federal Government’s earlier decision to terminate certain port-related agreements.
2. Ethiopia
Ethiopia’s involvement in Somalia’s increasingly fragmented political landscape has also attracted attention.
Reports that political figures entered Beledweyne through the Ferfer border crossing with assistance from Ethiopian troops have fueled allegations of Addis Ababa’s involvement in the Hirshabelle crisis.
Meanwhile, Ethiopian forces remain stationed in several districts of Southwest State, including areas that have recently changed political control without major confrontations involving Ethiopian troops.
These developments have raised questions about Ethiopia’s position in the escalating confrontation between Mogadishu and regional opposition forces.
3. Israel
Israel’s reported recognition of Somaliland has become another major point of contention, with Mogadishu viewing any recognition of the breakaway territory as a direct challenge to Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Speculation also surrounds a fourth foreign country allegedly maintaining connections with armed opposition figures, although its identity and involvement remain unverified.