UN concerned about Somalia violence

UNITED NATIONS - The Security Council on Wednesday voiced concern about the ongoing violence in Las Anod in the Sool region of northern Somalia, which has led to a large number of civilian casualties and the displacement of more than 150 000 people.

In a press statement, the members of the Security Council welcomed efforts and initiatives by the federal government of Somalia, Ethiopia, and clan elders to secure a cease-fire and promote inclusive, Somali-owned national dialogue.

They called on all parties to reach a cease-fire agreement urgently and encouraged inclusive dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution. They called on the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia to provide further support.

The council members expressed deep concern about the loss of life and injuries sustained in Las Anod in December 2022, when protests were quelled by “Somaliland” security forces. They condemned the violent clashes between “Somaliland” security forces and clan militia. They condemned all acts of violence against civilians and condemned in the strongest terms the civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure caused by the conflict.

The council members called for the immediate withdrawal of “Somaliland” security forces and called on all parties to exercise restraint and to refrain from provocative actions, incitement to violence and inflammatory rhetoric in order to de-escalate the situation on the ground, rebuild trust and to create the conditions for peace.

They reminded all parties of their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, as applicable. They urged all parties to hold accountable those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of human rights.

The council members expressed concern about the impact of the violence on the humanitarian situation in Las Anod and the wider Sool region. They called on all parties to allow and facilitate the rapid and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance. They called on all donors to scale up humanitarian assistance. They called on all parties to permit access for explosive ordnance disposal teams to assist with the removal of explosive remnants.