The federal government of Somalia has suspended its military cooperation with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) amid rising diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
The move comes after Somalia accused the UAE of interfering in its internal affairs, including supporting political opposition groups and fostering closer ties with federal member states without Mogadishu’s approval.
The suspension includes the withdrawal of all Emirati military assets, officers, and logistical equipment from Somali territory, including bases in Mogadishu, Bosaso, and Berbera.
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The UAE has requested the reversal of the ban, but Somalia has refused, allowing only limited evacuation flights to withdraw existing personnel and equipment.
The ban, which took effect on 8 January, was triggered by reports that an aircraft linked to the UAE transported Aidarous al-Zubaidi, leader of Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council, through Somali territory without prior authorization from Somali authorities.
The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen has accused the UAE of facilitating the flight, allegations that Mogadishu says are now under investigation.
Somali security sources say at least one of six UAE aircraft that landed at Somali airports violated the ban repeatedly, prompting warnings of further measures. While exceptions have reportedly been made for limited evacuation flights, the government in Mogadishu has insisted on strict enforcement of the ban, which does not apply to civilian airlines.
Beginning a Withdrawal
In response to the ban, the UAE has begun withdrawing some of its military hardware and personnel from Somali territory, according to local reports.
This represents a significant step back from the growing security cooperation between the two countries in recent years.
The dispute comes amid a wider backdrop of strained relations over regional security and sovereignty.
Somali officials have stressed that any unauthorized use of their airspace constitutes a serious breach of international law and national sovereignty.
The UAE and Somalia have maintained a complicated security relationship over the past decade, with Abu Dhabi previously providing military training and support, particularly to regional forces in Puntland.
However, past tensions over control of strategic Somali ports and disputes over sovereignty have periodically strained ties.
Analysts say the latest move could mark an effective end to active military cooperation between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi unless diplomatic channels can resolve the dispute. For now, Somali authorities are signaling a firm stance on defending their airspace and national sovereignty.