Today, February 10, marks the fifth day of fighting in Lasanod, the capital of Sool City. The battle between Somaliland government forces and local armed forces had paused briefly but resumed this morning.
Reports from the area indicate that Somaliland army attacked local armed forces, resulting in the resumption of fighting. So far, it is estimated that the five-day battle has killed over 50 people and injured around 150. Residents in the area have begun to flee as the fighting intensifies.
According to Faysal Ali Warabe, the opposition leader, the war can only end if the Somaliland government declares a unilateral ceasefire. “The government should facilitate humanitarian assistance to displaced people and make every effort to ensure peace,” said Warabe.
On his end, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Lasanod, but Somaliland authorities have yet to comply. The head of state condemned the bloodshed in the area, adding that Somalis should not fight amongst themselves. He urged both parties to be understanding and to resolve the issue through dialogue.
The death toll in Lasanod is rising, with no end in sight. The injured in the area have been taken to Mogadishu, while others have been taken to Garowe, where Puntland has provided medical assistance.
The international community has appealed to both sides, citing the fact that civilians are being killed in the conflict. According to the US government, the bloodshed in the area is unacceptable and must be stopped. A statement from the Office of African Affairs in charge of the US Department of State read, “The indiscriminate attacks on civilians in Lasanod is unacceptable and must be stopped.”
The US also stated that humanitarian aid should be allowed into the area and that the conflict should be resolved amicably. “We call for an immediate de-escalation of violence in Lasanod, protection of civilians, unimpeded humanitarian access, and for tensions to be resolved peacefully through dialogue,” the US statement read in part.
This statement comes as fighting between Somaliland soldiers and local armed forces opposing Muse Bihi’s administration in Lasanood has escalated. With no end in sight, the crisis in Lasanod appears to be worsening.
Be First to Comment