Two U.S. Navy sailors went missing Thursday off the coast of Somalia, U.S. Central Command said in a statement Friday.

Two US Navy seals go missing off Somalia coast, search underway

On January 11, 2024, two US Navy SEALs went missing after falling into the water during a nighttime boarding mission in the Gulf of Aden. The SEALs were raiding a small ship off Somalia.

2 US Navy sailors go missing off Somalia coast, search underway

In a move that has heightened regional tensions, Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed into law the annulment of a contentious agreement between the breakaway Somaliland region and Ethiopia.

This is based on a Reuters report.

The deal, signed on New Year's Day, involved granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for recognising Somaliland as an independent nation. The law, signed on Saturday, rejects the agreement that would have permitted Ethiopia to lease a strategic portion of the port of Berbera for 50 years.

Somalia, asserting Somaliland as part of its territory, vehemently opposed the accord, fearing potential conflict in the region.

"This evening, I signed the law nullifying the illegal MoU between the government of Ethiopia and Somaliland," said President Mohamud, according to a Reuters report.

Emphasising the commitment to preserve unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity under international law, he did not provide specific details about the content of the new law or when the parliament passed it.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's aspiration to secure Red Sea access has long been a contentious issue in the Horn of Africa. The nullified agreement was part of Ethiopia's strategy to secure a 20 km stretch around the port of Berbera on the Gulf of Aden, providing access to the Red Sea. In return, Ethiopia would recognise Somaliland as an independent nation.

However, Somalia's rejection of this arrangement underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, with Somalia considering Somaliland an integral part of its sovereign territory.

Abiy Ahmed's vision for Ethiopia's connection to the Red Sea has been a source of tension, with his national security adviser suggesting a potential compromise involving offering Somaliland a stake in the state-owned Ethiopian Airlines in exchange for access to the Red Sea.

Abiy's assertion in October that Ethiopia's existence is "tied to the Red Sea" reflects the significance he places on securing strategic maritime access. There has yet to be an official response from Somaliland or Ethiopian authorities regarding the nullification of the port deal.

<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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In a move that has heightened regional tensions, Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed into law the annulment of a contentious agreement between the breakaway Somaliland region and Ethiopia.

In a move that has heightened regional tensions, Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed into law the annulment of a contentious agreement between the breakaway Somaliland region and Ethiopia. This is based on a Reuters report. The deal, signed on New Year's Day, involved granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for recognising Somaliland as an independent nation. The law, signed on Saturday, rejects the agreement that would have permitted Ethiopia to lease a strategic portion of the port of Berbera for 50 years. Somalia, asserting Somaliland as part of its territory, vehemently opposed the accord, fearing potential conflict in the region. "This evening, I signed the law nullifying the illegal MoU between the government of Ethiopia and Somaliland," said President Mohamud, according to a Reuters report. Emphasising the commitment to preserve unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity under international law, he did not provide specific details about the content of the new law or when the parliament passed it. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's aspiration to secure Red Sea access has long been a contentious issue in the Horn of Africa. The nullified agreement was part of Ethiopia's strategy to secure a 20 km stretch around the port of Berbera on the Gulf of Aden, providing access to the Red Sea. In return, Ethiopia would recognise Somaliland as an independent nation. However, Somalia's rejection of this arrangement underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, with Somalia considering Somaliland an integral part of its sovereign territory. Abiy Ahmed's vision for Ethiopia's connection to the Red Sea has been a source of tension, with his national security adviser suggesting a potential compromise involving offering Somaliland a stake in the state-owned Ethiopian Airlines in exchange for access to the Red Sea. Abiy's assertion in October that Ethiopia's existence is "tied to the Red Sea" reflects the significance he places on securing strategic maritime access. There has yet to be an official response from Somaliland or Ethiopian authorities regarding the nullification of the port deal. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Somalia president nullifies Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal. Here are the details

Chief of the Indian Navy, Admiral R Hari Kumar has revealed that by the time the elite marine commandos arrived to rescue the 21 crew members, including 15 Indians from MV Lila Norfolk&nbsp;bulk carrier in the North Arabian Sea, the pirates had already fled the scene.&nbsp;

The Indian Navy on Friday (Jan 5) conducted the operation after five to six armed pirates attempted to hijack the&nbsp;Liberian-flagged vessel.

"Upon reaching the targeted ship, the Indian Navy's marine commandos executed a meticulous sanitisation of the area. Interestingly, the pirates were not visible on the ship during the operation," the Navy chief was quoted as saying by India Today.

"It seems that after seeing our aircraft and drones operating all over the ship hijacked by them, the pirates ran away from the Lili Norfolk on the (intervening) night of 4-5 January itself. The Marine Commandos had to sanitise the vessel for any traps or other issues," he added.&nbsp;

MV Lila Norfolk was hijacked near Somalia's coast and sent a distress message via the UK Maritime Trade Operations Portal. Upon receiving the message, the Indian Navy urgently mobilised a warship, maritime patrol aircraft P-8I, MQ9B Predator drones and helicopters.&nbsp;

Indian warship INS Chennai intercepted the hijacked vessel around 3:15 pm on Friday and soon the&nbsp;MARCOs (Marine Commandos) were aboard it.&nbsp;

"Indian Navy swiftly responded to the hijacking incident onboard Liberian flagged Bulk Carrier MV Lila Norfolk deploying considerable strength of assets (both ships and aircraft) and an aggressive intent to counter-attack by pirates," the naval forces said in an official statement on January 6.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-navy-rescues-all-indians-onboard-hijacked-ship-mv-lila-norfolk-677047">Watch |&nbsp;Indian Navy rescues all Indians onboard hijacked ship 'MV Lila Norfolk'</a>

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<h2>Indian personnel relieved&nbsp;</h2>

The rescued Indian crew members narrated the ordeal and expressed relief on being safe. They also thanked the Indian Navy troops for acting urgently and conducting the rescue operation.

"We were stuck inside for 24 hours," an Indian crew member&nbsp;said while referring to the duration the vessel was stuck amid piracy attempts off the coast of Somalia. "Now we are relieved," he said.

"Indian Navy. I am proud of the Indian Navy," said another rescued member.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navys-ins-chennai-reaches-hijacked-vessel-off-somalia-coast-676932">Arabian Sea hijack: All crew, including 15 Indians onboard ship secured, evacuated by Indian Navy</a>

The hijacking of commercial ships and attempted hijackings by suspected pirates near the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea regions resumed in December after a six-year lull. Experts believed this was because naval forces led by the US have diverted their attention to the Red Sea to thwart Houthi attacks.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Chief of the Indian Navy, Admiral R Hari Kumar has revealed that by the time the elite marine commandos arrived to rescue the 21 crew members, including 15 Indians from MV Lila Norfolk bulk carrier in the North Arabian Sea, the pirates had already fled the scene.

Chief of the Indian Navy, Admiral R Hari Kumar has revealed that by the time the elite marine commandos arrived to rescue the 21 crew members, including 15 Indians from MV Lila Norfolk bulk carrier in the North Arabian Sea, the pirates had already fled the scene. The Indian Navy on Friday (Jan 5) conducted the operation after five to six armed pirates attempted to hijack the Liberian-flagged vessel. "Upon reaching the targeted ship, the Indian Navy's marine commandos executed a meticulous sanitisation of the area. Interestingly, the pirates were not visible on the ship during the operation," the Navy chief was quoted as saying by India Today. "It seems that after seeing our aircraft and drones operating all over the ship hijacked by them, the pirates ran away from the Lili Norfolk on the (intervening) night of 4-5 January itself. The Marine Commandos had to sanitise the vessel for any traps or other issues," he added. MV Lila Norfolk was hijacked near Somalia's coast and sent a distress message via the UK Maritime Trade Operations Portal. Upon receiving the message, the Indian Navy urgently mobilised a warship, maritime patrol aircraft P-8I, MQ9B Predator drones and helicopters. Indian warship INS Chennai intercepted the hijacked vessel around 3:15 pm on Friday and soon the MARCOs (Marine Commandos) were aboard it. "Indian Navy swiftly responded to the hijacking incident onboard Liberian flagged Bulk Carrier MV Lila Norfolk deploying considerable strength of assets (both ships and aircraft) and an aggressive intent to counter-attack by pirates," the naval forces said in an official statement on January 6. Watch | Indian Navy rescues all Indians onboard hijacked ship 'MV Lila Norfolk' × Indian personnel relieved The rescued Indian crew members narrated the ordeal and expressed relief on being safe. They also thanked the Indian Navy troops for acting urgently and conducting the rescue operation. "We were stuck inside for 24 hours," an Indian crew member said while referring to the duration the vessel was stuck amid piracy attempts off the coast of Somalia. "Now we are relieved," he said. "Indian Navy. I am proud of the Indian Navy," said another rescued member. Also read | Arabian Sea hijack: All crew, including 15 Indians onboard ship secured, evacuated by Indian Navy The hijacking of commercial ships and attempted hijackings by suspected pirates near the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea regions resumed in December after a six-year lull. Experts believed this was because naval forces led by the US have diverted their attention to the Red Sea to thwart Houthi attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

'They ran away...': Indian Navy chief reveals how the hijacked ship in Arabian Sea was rescued from pirates

The first video of the rescued Indian crew on-board the previously hijacked Liberian-flagged ship MV Lila Norfolk is out. The Indian personnel narrated the ordeal and expressed relief following the rescue.&nbsp;

"We were stuck inside for 24 hours," an Indian personnel said while referring to the duration the vessel was stuck amid piracy attempts off the coast of Somalia. "Now we are relieved."

"Indian Navy. I am proud of the Indian Navy," said another rescued personnel.&nbsp;

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Watch: Indian crew of MV Lila Norfolk chant Bharat Mata ki Jai after being rescued as Indian Navy thwarted the hijacking. The Philippines crew can also be seen. The vessel had 21 crew members, of which 15 are Indians. <a href="https://t.co/kNDw3vf043">https://t.co/kNDw3vf043</a> <a href="https://t.co/H5F1m4wyGj">pic.twitter.com/H5F1m4wyGj</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1743503672313806991?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The personnel sang praises to Mother India in jubilation, with 'Bharat Mata ki jai' (Victory to Mother India) slogans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navys-ins-chennai-reaches-hijacked-vessel-off-somalia-coast-676932">Arabian Sea hijack: All crew, including 15 Indians onboard ship secured, evacuated by Indian Navy</a>

All 21 crew personnel, including 15 Indian citizens onboard the MV Lila Norfolk vessel, which was hijacked on Thursday (Jan 4) off the coast of Somalia have been secured and evacuated by the Indian Navy.&nbsp;

"Indian Navy swiftly responded to the hijacking incident onboard Liberian flagged Bulk Carrier MV Lila Norfolk deploying considerable strength of assets (both ships and aircraft) and an aggressive intent to counter-attack by pirates," the naval forces said in an official statement on January 6.

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In a new statement, the Indian Navy details how it thwarted the hijacking of MV Lila Norfolk. Says, 'Indian Naval forces are investigating the suspected vessels in the area' <a href="https://t.co/kNDw3vf043">https://t.co/kNDw3vf043</a> <a href="https://t.co/LW0znQrHPb">pic.twitter.com/LW0znQrHPb</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1743501969590026502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Indian Navy has increased its surveillance in the Arabian Sea after a recent spate of attacks in the region. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, data from the navy's Information Fusion Centre said that the Indian Ocean Region showed at least three hijacking cases in Dec 2023.&nbsp; 
 
A total of three major maritime security incidents have been reported between Dec 28, 2023, and Jan 3, 2024, according to the Indian Navy's Information fusion centre for the Indian Ocean region. These include attacks by anti-ship ballistic missile attacks and an attack on the MV Maersk Hangzhou ship.&nbsp;

The hijacking of commercial ships and attempted hijackings by suspected pirates near the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea regions resumed in December after a six-year lull. &nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/25/401386-untitled-design-2023-12-25t002340471.png?imwidth=3840" />

The armed attacks on the&nbsp;ships passing through the strategically important maritime region&nbsp;have disrupted one of the busiest global shipping lanes | WION

This is partly due to the repositioning of the US Navy to protect its assets in the region in the wake of Houthi attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navys-ins-chennai-reaches-hijacked-vessel-off-somalia-coast-676932">Arabian Sea hijack: All crew, including 15 Indians onboard ship secured, evacuated by Indian Navy</a>

The Iran-backed and Yemen-based Houthi militia have launched sustained attacks on the merchant ships passing through the crucial maritime region in purported support of Palestinians in the wake of Israel's retaliatory state of war in Gaza that began on October 7 last year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The first video of the rescued Indian crew on-board the previously hijacked Liberian-flagged ship MV Lila Norfolk is out. The Indian personnel narrated the ordeal and expressed relief following the rescue.

The first video of the rescued Indian crew on-board the previously hijacked Liberian-flagged ship MV Lila Norfolk is out. The Indian personnel narrated the ordeal and expressed relief following the rescue. "We were stuck inside for 24 hours," an Indian personnel said while referring to the duration the vessel was stuck amid piracy attempts off the coast of Somalia. "Now we are relieved." "Indian Navy. I am proud of the Indian Navy," said another rescued personnel. Watch: Indian crew of MV Lila Norfolk chant Bharat Mata ki Jai after being rescued as Indian Navy thwarted the hijacking. The Philippines crew can also be seen. The vessel had 21 crew members, of which 15 are Indians. https://t.co/kNDw3vf043 pic.twitter.com/H5F1m4wyGj — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 6, 2024 × The personnel sang praises to Mother India in jubilation, with 'Bharat Mata ki jai' (Victory to Mother India) slogans. Also read | Arabian Sea hijack: All crew, including 15 Indians onboard ship secured, evacuated by Indian Navy All 21 crew personnel, including 15 Indian citizens onboard the MV Lila Norfolk vessel, which was hijacked on Thursday (Jan 4) off the coast of Somalia have been secured and evacuated by the Indian Navy. "Indian Navy swiftly responded to the hijacking incident onboard Liberian flagged Bulk Carrier MV Lila Norfolk deploying considerable strength of assets (both ships and aircraft) and an aggressive intent to counter-attack by pirates," the naval forces said in an official statement on January 6. In a new statement, the Indian Navy details how it thwarted the hijacking of MV Lila Norfolk. Says, 'Indian Naval forces are investigating the suspected vessels in the area' https://t.co/kNDw3vf043 pic.twitter.com/LW0znQrHPb — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 6, 2024 × The Indian Navy has increased its surveillance in the Arabian Sea after a recent spate of attacks in the region. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, data from the navy's Information Fusion Centre said that the Indian Ocean Region showed at least three hijacking cases in Dec 2023. A total of three major maritime security incidents have been reported between Dec 28, 2023, and Jan 3, 2024, according to the Indian Navy's Information fusion centre for the Indian Ocean region. These include attacks by anti-ship ballistic missile attacks and an attack on the MV Maersk Hangzhou ship. The hijacking of commercial ships and attempted hijackings by suspected pirates near the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea regions resumed in December after a six-year lull. The armed attacks on the ships passing through the strategically important maritime region have disrupted one of the busiest global shipping lanes | WION This is partly due to the repositioning of the US Navy to protect its assets in the region in the wake of Houthi attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea region. Also read | Arabian Sea hijack: All crew, including 15 Indians onboard ship secured, evacuated by Indian Navy The Iran-backed and Yemen-based Houthi militia have launched sustained attacks on the merchant ships passing through the crucial maritime region in purported support of Palestinians in the wake of Israel's retaliatory state of war in Gaza that began on October 7 last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Rescued crew hails Indian Navy after end of hijacking ordeal off Somalia coast

In a high voltage drama unfolding in the high seas, Indian naval warship INS Chennai reached the hijacked vessel MV Lila Norfolk off Somalia coast on Friday and issued a warning to the pirates on board to abandon the vessel.

Indian Navy reaches hijacked ship, launches helicopters & issues warning to pirates

An Indian Navy warship, INS Chennai, is en route to address a hijacking incident involving the vessel 'MV Lila Norfolk' with 15 Indian crew members in the Arabian Sea, media reports said on Friday (Jan 5) citing military officials.&nbsp;

ANI news agency reported that the Indian Navy received information about the hijacked Liberian-flagged ship near Somalia's coast on the evening hours of Thursday (Jan 4).&nbsp;The Indian Navy is actively monitoring the situation.&nbsp;

Reports said that a surveillance aircraft, also known as Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA), had also been deployed to observe the vessel. Communication has also been established with the crew.

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The ongoing situation is under close monitoring with coordination among various agencies and the multi-national force (MNF) in the region, media reports said citing the Indian Navy.

The MPA conducted an overflight of the vessel in the early morning of Friday, during which it established contact and ensured the safety of the crew, said news agency reports.

“The vessel had sent a message on the UKMTO (United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations) portal, indicating boarding by approximately five to six unknown armed personnel on the evening of January 4, 2024,” the Indian Navy reportedly said in a statement.

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Presently, specific information regarding the hijacking as well as the identity of the perpetrators is not known.

<h2>Surveillance bolstered&nbsp;</h2>

The Indian Navy has bolstered its surveillance in response to a surge in security incidents reported on merchant vessels navigating international shipping lanes in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

The Navy acted promptly in a recent hijacking crisis in the Arabian Sea on December 14, involving the Malta-flagged vessel MV Ruen en route to Somalia.

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The incident unfolded rapidly, prompting the evacuation of a Bulgarian national, one of the 18 crew members aboard the hijacked cargo vessel, who sustained injuries during the pirate action.

The Indian Navy utilised the frontline ship INS Kochi to evacuate and provide medical care to the injured sailor.

(With inputs from agency)

An Indian Navy warship, INS Chennai, is en route to address a hijacking incident involving the vessel 'MV Lila Norfolk' with 15 Indian crew members in the Arabian Sea, media reports said on Friday (Jan 5) citing military officials.

An Indian Navy warship, INS Chennai, is en route to address a hijacking incident involving the vessel 'MV Lila Norfolk' with 15 Indian crew members in the Arabian Sea, media reports said on Friday (Jan 5) citing military officials. ANI news agency reported that the Indian Navy received information about the hijacked Liberian-flagged ship near Somalia's coast on the evening hours of Thursday (Jan 4). The Indian Navy is actively monitoring the situation. Reports said that a surveillance aircraft, also known as Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA), had also been deployed to observe the vessel. Communication has also been established with the crew. Also Read | Anti-India graffiti surfaces at another California temple, defaced with Khalistani propaganda The ongoing situation is under close monitoring with coordination among various agencies and the multi-national force (MNF) in the region, media reports said citing the Indian Navy. The MPA conducted an overflight of the vessel in the early morning of Friday, during which it established contact and ensured the safety of the crew, said news agency reports. “The vessel had sent a message on the UKMTO (United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations) portal, indicating boarding by approximately five to six unknown armed personnel on the evening of January 4, 2024,” the Indian Navy reportedly said in a statement. Also Read | Armed men kidnapped 32 migrants in Mexico for extortion, president says Presently, specific information regarding the hijacking as well as the identity of the perpetrators is not known. Surveillance bolstered The Indian Navy has bolstered its surveillance in response to a surge in security incidents reported on merchant vessels navigating international shipping lanes in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Navy acted promptly in a recent hijacking crisis in the Arabian Sea on December 14, involving the Malta-flagged vessel MV Ruen en route to Somalia. Watch | Israel at War: IDF reports troops have raided Hamas compound connected to underground network × The incident unfolded rapidly, prompting the evacuation of a Bulgarian national, one of the 18 crew members aboard the hijacked cargo vessel, who sustained injuries during the pirate action. The Indian Navy utilised the frontline ship INS Kochi to evacuate and provide medical care to the injured sailor. (With inputs from agency)

Indian Navy warship en route to tackle hijacking of ship, with 15 Indian crew members, near Somalia coast

Tensions are escalating in the horn of africa as somalia rejects a landmark agreement between ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland. The deal would grant ethiopia access to the Red Sea via the port of Berbera, but Somalia claims the pact has no legal force.

Diplomatic tensions rise over Berbera Port agreement | World Business Watch

Somalia's cabinet calls emergency meeting on breakaway region, signs deal with Ethiopia

Somalia said on Tuesday that the pact its breakaway region of Somaliland has signed with Ethiopia allowing it to use the Red Sea port of Berbera had no legal force and threatened regional stability.

Somalia also summoned its ambassador to Ethiopia for deliberations over the port agreement signed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi on Monday.

The agreement would allow landlocked Ethiopia, which relies on neighbouring Djibouti for most of its maritime trade, to set up commercial operations at a leased military base in Berbera.

It also included recognising Somaliland as an independent nation in due course.

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Abiy's stated ambition to secure access to the Red Sea is a source of tension between Ethiopia and its neighbours and has raised concerns of a fresh conflict in the Horn of Africa.

In October, Abiy said Ethiopia's existence was "tied to the Red Sea," adding that "if we (countries in the Horn of Africa) plan to live together in peace, we have to find a way to mutually share with each other in a balanced manner".

Somalia's cabinet said in a statement after an emergency meeting on Tuesday that the deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland "endangered stability and peace in the region".

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"It is a violation and an open interference with Somalia's sovereignty, freedom and unity. ... The so-called a memorandum of understanding and agreement of cooperation is null and void," the statement said.

Ethiopia would offer Somaliland a stake in state-owned Ethiopian Airlines in return for giving it access to the Red Sea, Abiy's national security adviser said on Monday, without giving more details.

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Billene Seyoum, spokesperson at Abiy's office, Meles Alem, spokesperson at Ethiopia's foreign affairs ministry, and Legesse Tulu, the Ethiopian government spokesperson, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Somaliland has not gained widespread international recognition, despite declaring autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Somalia says Somaliland is part of its territory.

Last week the Somali National News Agency said Somalia and Somaliland had agreed to restart talks to resolve their disputes, following mediation efforts led by Djibouti.

Somalia said on Tuesday that the pact its breakaway region of Somaliland has signed with Ethiopia allowing it to use the Red Sea port of Berbera had no legal force and threatened regional stability.

Somalia said on Tuesday that the pact its breakaway region of Somaliland has signed with Ethiopia allowing it to use the Red Sea port of Berbera had no legal force and threatened regional stability. Somalia also summoned its ambassador to Ethiopia for deliberations over the port agreement signed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi on Monday. The agreement would allow landlocked Ethiopia, which relies on neighbouring Djibouti for most of its maritime trade, to set up commercial operations at a leased military base in Berbera. It also included recognising Somaliland as an independent nation in due course. Also Read | Chinese exchange student falls victim to ‘cyber kidnapping’ scam, found in Utah wilderness Abiy's stated ambition to secure access to the Red Sea is a source of tension between Ethiopia and its neighbours and has raised concerns of a fresh conflict in the Horn of Africa. In October, Abiy said Ethiopia's existence was "tied to the Red Sea," adding that "if we (countries in the Horn of Africa) plan to live together in peace, we have to find a way to mutually share with each other in a balanced manner". Somalia's cabinet said in a statement after an emergency meeting on Tuesday that the deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland "endangered stability and peace in the region". Also Read | Primrose Hill stabbing case: Police names 16-year-old Harry Pitman as victim "It is a violation and an open interference with Somalia's sovereignty, freedom and unity. ... The so-called a memorandum of understanding and agreement of cooperation is null and void," the statement said. Ethiopia would offer Somaliland a stake in state-owned Ethiopian Airlines in return for giving it access to the Red Sea, Abiy's national security adviser said on Monday, without giving more details. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israel signals changes in Gaza war tactics × Billene Seyoum, spokesperson at Abiy's office, Meles Alem, spokesperson at Ethiopia's foreign affairs ministry, and Legesse Tulu, the Ethiopian government spokesperson, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Somaliland has not gained widespread international recognition, despite declaring autonomy from Somalia in 1991. Somalia says Somaliland is part of its territory. Last week the Somali National News Agency said Somalia and Somaliland had agreed to restart talks to resolve their disputes, following mediation efforts led by Djibouti.

Somalia rejects Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal, summons ambassador

Landlocked Ethiopia signed an initial agreement with Somalia's breakaway region of Somali land giving Ethiopia access to the sea through in the Red Sea Port of Berbera.

Somalia is set to receive debt relief of $4.5 billion from its international creditors, the international monetary fund and world bank. For one of the poorest nations in the world with around 70 percent of its population living on less than $1.90 a day, it is welcome news.

Somalia gets $4.5bn in debt relief from creditors | World of Africa

The number of people killed by floods from heavy rains in Somalia has climbed to 96, state news agency SONNA said on Saturday.

"Somalia's flood death toll climbs to 96," SONNA said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, adding the figure had been confirmed by Mahamuud Moallim, the head of the country's disaster management agency.

Like the rest of east and Horn of Africa, Somalia has been battered by relentless heavy rains that begun in October, caused by the El Nino and Indian Ocean Dipole weather phenomena.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-at-least-29-killed-300000-displaced-after-worst-floods-in-decades-hit-east-africa-656708">Somalia: At least 29 killed, 300,000 displaced after worst floods in decades hit East Africa</a>

Both are climate patterns that impact ocean surface temperatures and cause above-average rainfall.

The flooding has been described as the worst in decades and has displaced about 700,000 people, according to the United Nations.

The intense rains have unleashed widespread flooding across the country, triggering displacement and exacerbating an already existing humanitarian crisis caused by years of insurgency.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-heavy-rains-floods-wreak-havoc-in-towns-across-east-africa-657097">Heavy rains, floods wreak havoc in towns across East Africa</a>

In neighbouring Kenya the floods have so far killed 76 people, according to the Kenyan Red Cross, and also unleashed widespread displacement, destruction of roads and bridges and left many residents without shelter, drinking and food supplies, according to the charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). 
&nbsp;

The number of people killed by floods from heavy rains in Somalia has climbed to 96, state news agency SONNA said on Saturday. "Somalia's flood death toll climbs to 96," SONNA said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, adding the figure had been confirmed by Mahamuud Moallim, the head of the country's disaster management agency.

The number of people killed by floods from heavy rains in Somalia has climbed to 96, state news agency SONNA said on Saturday. "Somalia's flood death toll climbs to 96," SONNA said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, adding the figure had been confirmed by Mahamuud Moallim, the head of the country's disaster management agency. Like the rest of east and Horn of Africa, Somalia has been battered by relentless heavy rains that begun in October, caused by the El Nino and Indian Ocean Dipole weather phenomena. ALSO READ | Somalia: At least 29 killed, 300,000 displaced after worst floods in decades hit East Africa Both are climate patterns that impact ocean surface temperatures and cause above-average rainfall. The flooding has been described as the worst in decades and has displaced about 700,000 people, according to the United Nations. The intense rains have unleashed widespread flooding across the country, triggering displacement and exacerbating an already existing humanitarian crisis caused by years of insurgency. ALSO READ | Heavy rains, floods wreak havoc in towns across East Africa In neighbouring Kenya the floods have so far killed 76 people, according to the Kenyan Red Cross, and also unleashed widespread displacement, destruction of roads and bridges and left many residents without shelter, drinking and food supplies, according to the charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

Death toll from flooding in Somalia climbs to nearly 100

In pics | Heavy rains, floods wreak havoc in towns across East Africa

Flash floods in Southwestern Somalia have claimed more than two dozen lives and displaced hundreds of thousands from their homes. According to the National Disaster Management Agency - the heavy rain has wreaked havoc in this East African town.

Africa: 29 killed in Somalia floods, more than 300,000 forced to flee their homes | World DNA

At least 29 people were killed and more than 300,000 people were forced to flee their homes after Somalia was hit by one of the worst floods in decades, said the country’s National Disaster Management Agency, on Wednesday (Nov 8). Rainstorms have been hitting Somalia and its neighbouring Kenya and Ethiopia&nbsp;from the beginning of the month, triggering landslides and submerging villages and farms across the countries after they suffered the region’s worst drought in four decades.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in Somalia?</h2>

“What is going on today is the worst for decades. It is worse than even the 1997 floods,” said Hassan Isse, managing director of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SOMDA), as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

The official also noted that the death toll as well as the number of people displaced is likely to rise further as many people were trapped by floodwaters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-ciaran-at-least-seven-people-killed-amid-torrential-rains-and-record-winds-654484">Storm Ciaran: At least seven people killed across Europe amid torrential rains and record winds</a>

In addition to the death toll and those displaced at least 850,000 others have been affected, due to the floods, said Mohamed Moalim Abdullahi, chairman of SOMDA, late Tuesday, as per AFP.&nbsp;

At least 2,400 people have been cut off in Luuq town, where the Jubba River burst its banks, said the United Nations. Meanwhile, the UN humanitarian agency OCHA, on Wednesday said rescue efforts were being delayed because roads had been cut.&nbsp;

“Inaccessible roads and stuck vehicles are just some of the challenges aid workers in Somalia are grappling with,” said the UN agency in a post on X, adding that they are “racing against time” to rescue 2,400 people trapped by rising flood waters in Luuq, on the road linking the Somalia-Ethiopia border with Baidoa.&nbsp;

“Luuq is surrounded by the river and floods are threatening us. People keep fleeing out of the town. Some are still trapped. Our shops have been washed away,” said Ahmed Nur, a trader in Luuq, as quoted by Reuters.

<h2>Situation in neighbouring countries</h2>

Since the beginning of this month, at least 15 people have been killed after flash flooding in Kenya, while more than 20 people have died and over 12,000 have been forced from their homes in Ethiopia’s Somali region.

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Floods in Kenya have also submerged a bridge in Uganda, cutting off a road linking Kampala to oilfields in the northwest, said Kenya Red Cross and Uganda’s road authority.&nbsp;

<h2>El Nino effect</h2>

Countries in the Horn of Africa are considered among the most vulnerable to climate change and are also particularly ill-equipped to cope with the crisis.&nbsp;

This time around, the regional deluge is said to have been caused by the combined effect of two weather phenomena, El Nino and the Indian Ocean Dipole, according to Nazanine Moshiri, a climate analyst at the International Crisis Group.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-at-least-15-killed-after-storm-daniel-brings-most-intense-rainstorms-since-1930-634668">Greece: At least 15 killed after Storm Daniel brings ‘most intense’ rainstorms since 1930</a>

Both El Nino and Indian Ocean Dipole are climate patterns that impact ocean surface temperatures and cause above-average rainfall. Moshiri also noted that the impact of flooding is much worse as the soil was damaged from an “unprecedented recent drought” and “years of conflict.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 29 people were killed and more than 300,000 people were forced to flee their homes after Somalia was hit by one of the worst floods in decades, said the country’s National Disaster Management Agency, on Wednesday (Nov 8).

At least 29 people were killed and more than 300,000 people were forced to flee their homes after Somalia was hit by one of the worst floods in decades, said the country’s National Disaster Management Agency, on Wednesday (Nov 8). Rainstorms have been hitting Somalia and its neighbouring Kenya and Ethiopia from the beginning of the month, triggering landslides and submerging villages and farms across the countries after they suffered the region’s worst drought in four decades. What happened in Somalia? “What is going on today is the worst for decades. It is worse than even the 1997 floods,” said Hassan Isse, managing director of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SOMDA), as quoted by Reuters. The official also noted that the death toll as well as the number of people displaced is likely to rise further as many people were trapped by floodwaters. ALSO READ | Storm Ciaran: At least seven people killed across Europe amid torrential rains and record winds In addition to the death toll and those displaced at least 850,000 others have been affected, due to the floods, said Mohamed Moalim Abdullahi, chairman of SOMDA, late Tuesday, as per AFP. At least 2,400 people have been cut off in Luuq town, where the Jubba River burst its banks, said the United Nations. Meanwhile, the UN humanitarian agency OCHA, on Wednesday said rescue efforts were being delayed because roads had been cut. “Inaccessible roads and stuck vehicles are just some of the challenges aid workers in Somalia are grappling with,” said the UN agency in a post on X, adding that they are “racing against time” to rescue 2,400 people trapped by rising flood waters in Luuq, on the road linking the Somalia-Ethiopia border with Baidoa. “Luuq is surrounded by the river and floods are threatening us. People keep fleeing out of the town. Some are still trapped. Our shops have been washed away,” said Ahmed Nur, a trader in Luuq, as quoted by Reuters. Situation in neighbouring countries Since the beginning of this month, at least 15 people have been killed after flash flooding in Kenya, while more than 20 people have died and over 12,000 have been forced from their homes in Ethiopia’s Somali region. ALSO READ | Global fossil fuel production plans threaten 1.5 degree Celsius warming threshold: UN report Floods in Kenya have also submerged a bridge in Uganda, cutting off a road linking Kampala to oilfields in the northwest, said Kenya Red Cross and Uganda’s road authority. El Nino effect Countries in the Horn of Africa are considered among the most vulnerable to climate change and are also particularly ill-equipped to cope with the crisis. This time around, the regional deluge is said to have been caused by the combined effect of two weather phenomena, El Nino and the Indian Ocean Dipole, according to Nazanine Moshiri, a climate analyst at the International Crisis Group. ALSO READ | Greece: At least 15 killed after Storm Daniel brings ‘most intense’ rainstorms since 1930 Both El Nino and Indian Ocean Dipole are climate patterns that impact ocean surface temperatures and cause above-average rainfall. Moshiri also noted that the impact of flooding is much worse as the soil was damaged from an “unprecedented recent drought” and “years of conflict.” (With inputs from agencies)

Somalia: At least 29 killed, 300,000 displaced after worst floods in decades hit East Africa

Somalia’s first all-women media outfit is set to expand its coverage. Bilan, created just over a year ago in the country’s capital, Mogadishu, is a six-women newsroom featuring a blend of breaking news and in-depth features focusing on the lived realities of women.

Somalia's female media spotlights taboos

The death toll from the&nbsp;truck bombing in central Somalia rose to 21, on Sunday (September 24) after&nbsp;emergency workers dug through rubble to recover more bodies. This comes a day after&nbsp;a suicide bomber drove a truck packed with explosives towards a security checkpoint.

The attack took place in the town of Beledweyne where the officials have also reported damage to nearby buildings.&nbsp;

It was not immediately clear who carried out the bombing and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, as of Sunday. However, the Islamist group al Shabaab is known to frequently carry out bombings in the Horn of Africa country.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The attack took place in the town of Beledweyne, which is in central Somalia’s Hiran region and has recently witnessed battles between the military and al Shabaab. 
 
"The death toll from yesterday's explosion has increased today from 13 to 21 people after more dead bodies were recovered under the debris of the destroyed buildings, some...burnt beyond recognition,"&nbsp;Ahmed Yare Adan, a local police officer, told AFP.&nbsp; 
 
"People... are still looking for the missing members of their families, they don't know if they are dead or alive," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-shabaab-kill-six-in-raid-on-somalia-village-they-recently-lost-549979">Al-Shabaab kill six in raid on Somalia village they recently lost</a> 
 
Meanwhile, the&nbsp;number of wounded in Beledweyne stood at 52, said Abdifatah Mohamed Yusuf, director general of the Hirshabelle ministry of humanitarian and disaster management, according to the Associated Press.&nbsp;

He also told the AP,&nbsp;that 17 of those critically wounded were airlifted to the capital, Mogadishu, for treatment.

Sayid Ali, deputy commander of the Beledweyne police station, told AFP that the bomber had targeted a busy neighbourhood that housed businesses and residential buildings. "The search and clearing operation is going on at the site of the explosion," Ali told AFP.&nbsp;

Police officer Ahmed Aden, on Saturday,&nbsp;told Reuters that among those killed were five police officers who had fired on the truck in a failed attempt to stop it from ramming the checkpoint, adding that the nearby buildings and shops were reduced to rubble.&nbsp;

<h2>About the al-Shabab group</h2>

The attack came after Somalia’s beleaguered government admitted to suffering “several significant setbacks” in its fight against the al Shabaab militants. The militant group has been fighting Somalia’s central government for more than a decade in a bid to establish its rule based on strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-shabaab-militants-attack-officials-house-in-somalia-10-dead-564645">Al Shabaab militants attack officials' house in Somalia, 10 dead</a>

The fragile internationally-backed government in Mogadishu has been able to keep al Shabaab away from the capital city Mogadishu after they were driven out in 2011 but the militant group continues to control swathes of the countryside.&nbsp;

This comes as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took office in May 2022, and vowed an “all-out war” against the group. During a recent visit to the frontline, as per AFP, Mohamud said that his government would “eliminate” the jihadists by the end of the year.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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The death toll from the truck bombing in central Somalia rose to 21, on Sunday (September 24) after emergency workers dug through rubble to recover more bodies. This comes a day after a suicide bomber drove a truck packed with explosives towards a security checkpoint.

The death toll from the truck bombing in central Somalia rose to 21, on Sunday (September 24) after emergency workers dug through rubble to recover more bodies. This comes a day after a suicide bomber drove a truck packed with explosives towards a security checkpoint. The attack took place in the town of Beledweyne where the officials have also reported damage to nearby buildings. It was not immediately clear who carried out the bombing and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, as of Sunday. However, the Islamist group al Shabaab is known to frequently carry out bombings in the Horn of Africa country. What happened? The attack took place in the town of Beledweyne, which is in central Somalia’s Hiran region and has recently witnessed battles between the military and al Shabaab. "The death toll from yesterday's explosion has increased today from 13 to 21 people after more dead bodies were recovered under the debris of the destroyed buildings, some...burnt beyond recognition," Ahmed Yare Adan, a local police officer, told AFP. "People... are still looking for the missing members of their families, they don't know if they are dead or alive," he added. ALSO READ | Al-Shabaab kill six in raid on Somalia village they recently lost Meanwhile, the number of wounded in Beledweyne stood at 52, said Abdifatah Mohamed Yusuf, director general of the Hirshabelle ministry of humanitarian and disaster management, according to the Associated Press. He also told the AP, that 17 of those critically wounded were airlifted to the capital, Mogadishu, for treatment. Sayid Ali, deputy commander of the Beledweyne police station, told AFP that the bomber had targeted a busy neighbourhood that housed businesses and residential buildings. "The search and clearing operation is going on at the site of the explosion," Ali told AFP. Police officer Ahmed Aden, on Saturday, told Reuters that among those killed were five police officers who had fired on the truck in a failed attempt to stop it from ramming the checkpoint, adding that the nearby buildings and shops were reduced to rubble. About the al-Shabab group The attack came after Somalia’s beleaguered government admitted to suffering “several significant setbacks” in its fight against the al Shabaab militants. The militant group has been fighting Somalia’s central government for more than a decade in a bid to establish its rule based on strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law. ALSO READ | Al Shabaab militants attack officials' house in Somalia, 10 dead The fragile internationally-backed government in Mogadishu has been able to keep al Shabaab away from the capital city Mogadishu after they were driven out in 2011 but the militant group continues to control swathes of the countryside. This comes as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took office in May 2022, and vowed an “all-out war” against the group. During a recent visit to the frontline, as per AFP, Mohamud said that his government would “eliminate” the jihadists by the end of the year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Somalia bombing: Death toll rises to 21 after truck with explosives hit security checkpoint

At least nine civilians have been killed and 10 others wounded in a six-hour siege by fighters from the armed group al-Shabab at a beachside hotel in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, police said on Saturday.

Somalia: Nine killed in hotel siege in Mogadishu

At least six civilians have been killed and 10 others wounded in a six-hour siege by fighters from the armed group al-Shabab at a beachside hotel in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, police said on Saturday.

Somalia: Several killed in hotel siege in Mogadishu

The Ugandan government said on Saturday (June 3) that 54 Ugandan peacekeepers were killed in an attack on a military base in Somalia last week by the militant group al Shabaab.

The Ugandan government said on Saturday (June 3) that 54 Ugandan peacekeepers were killed in an attack on a military base in Somalia last week by the militant group al Shabaab. According to a report by the news agency Reuters early Sunday, al-Shabaab militants targeted the base last Friday (May 26) in Bulamarer, around 130 kilometres southwest of Somalia's capital city Mogadishu. The base belonged to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said that the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) had since recaptured the base from the militant group. “Our soldiers demonstrated remarkable resilience and reorganised themselves, resulting in the recapture of the base by Tuesday,” President Museveni added. Last week, Museveni said that there were some Ugandan casualties but did not give further details about the attack on troops, who are serving in the ATMIS. ALSO READ | Al Shabaab militants attack officials' house in Somalia, 10 dead On May 26, the ATMIS said in a statement that al Shabaab hit the base using car and suicide bombers and that airborne reinforcement from the mission and its allies destroyed the militants' weaponry as they withdrew. The militant group also targeted an adjacent base belonging to the Somali military, an officer told Reuters from the Lower Shabelle region. Seventeen killed in clash between Somalia army, al Shabaab Just days after the attack on the ATMIS military base, al-Shabaab attacked another base in Masagawa on Tuesday (May 30), killing 17 people. Captain Abdullahi Mohamed, a military officer in Masagawa, confirmed the attack and said 12 al-Shabaab militants were killed, but he did not know how many troops were dead. On the other hand, Hussein Nur, a resident of Masagawa, told Reuters, "I have seen 17 dead people, including the attackers and the attacked. The fighting has moved into the forest. The town is calm now and under government control." On Twitter, the Somalia army said it had prevented an attack on the town itself, and killed al-Shabaab fighters, but did not say how many. Al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab has been fighting since 2006 to topple Somalia's central government and establish its own rule based on its strict interpretation of Islamic Sharia law. The group has launched attacks against hotels, military bases and government establishments despite a relatively successful government pushback. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fifty-four Ugandan soldiers killed by al-Shabaab militants in attack on military base in Somalia

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