Trump Affirms U.S. Support for Somalia Against Houthis and Terrorism

Donald Trump has lifted restrictive policies to enable U.S. support for Somalia against terrorists, particularly the Houthis. He emphasized military empowerment and announced a commitment to the Somali people, while Somalia has offered exclusive access to military facilities to the U.S. This could alter U.S. engagement in the region amid tensions with Somaliland, which seeks international recognition for its independence.

Former President Donald Trump recently conveyed a message to the Houthis, asserting that they should prepare to hide now that he has lifted restrictive policies from the Biden era, thus enabling U.S. troop involvement in safeguarding Somalia from terrorist threats. He emphasized, “Time for the terrorists to hide, but it won’t do them any good. Our Warfighters, the Greatest the World has ever seen, will find them, and bring them to a swift Justice.”

In his statement, Trump noted that he had eliminated “dangerous red tape” put in place by President Biden, thereby empowering U.S. military forces. He emphasized a commitment to support the Somali people in their efforts to counteract the Houthis and eradicate terrorism, stating, “We will support the Somali People, who should not allow the Houthis to embed… to end terrorism, and bring prosperity to their Country.”

The U.S. has been providing assistance to Somali forces through airstrikes and logistical support against groups such as al-Shabab and ISIS. In an interesting development, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently proposed in a letter to Trump that the U.S. be granted exclusive access to air bases and seaports in Somalia, aiming to heighten American engagement in the region.

This letter, dated March 16, was revealed on social media and sparked tensions with Somaliland, the breakaway region from Somalia. It offered operational control over key airbases and ports, including Berbera and Bosaso, thus ensuring military access against external threats.

The senior official within Somalia’s foreign ministry confirmed the authenticity of the letter under the condition of anonymity, but it remains unclear whether the final draft of the letter, which reiterated the offer, was sent. Berbera, a significant port city located in Somaliland, plays a pivotal role in this geopolitical context, given Somaliland’s declared independence from Somalia in 1991.

As the situation evolves, it remains noteworthy that Somaliland operates its own governance and security frameworks yet has not received international recognition for its independence, a situation that complicates regional dynamics.

In summary, former President Donald Trump has signaled a renewed U.S. commitment to combating terrorism in Somalia by removing restrictions imposed by the previous administration. His supportive stance towards the Somali people is coupled with an offer from Somalia to grant the U.S. exclusive access to key military facilities. This development has implications for U.S. foreign policy in the region, particularly concerning the Houthis and the independence of Somaliland.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com