The president stated that Somalia would not permit external forces to implement agendas threatening its territorial integrity.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has delivered a stern warning against what he termed foreign interference in Somalia’s domestic affairs, denouncing Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and rejecting any efforts to compromise the nation’s unity and sovereignty.

Addressing the crowd in Las Anod during the inauguration of the new regional administration, the president affirmed that Somalia would not tolerate external actors pursuing agendas that endanger its territorial integrity.

“I declare unequivocally that it is impossible for Israel to establish a government in Somalia or carry out its detrimental strategies here,” Hassan stated. “This region is not a place to forcibly relocate the people of Gaza, whose homes have been destroyed and whose land has been seized. Somalia rejects this, and the world rejects it as well.”

He accused Israel of advancing its own political interests above the needs and aspirations of communities residing in northern Somalia. He mentioned that Mogadishu would implement all required political, diplomatic, and legal measures to protect Somalia’s unity and preserve its internationally recognized borders.

The president emphasized that only Somalis themselves, through constitutional and federal processes, could make decisions affecting Somalia’s future.

Hassan characterized Las Anod as “a symbol of Somali unity,” underscoring the city’s importance following last year’s conflict that ended Somaliland’s control over the area. He promised full backing from the federal government to the newly established regional administration, with particular attention on maintaining security, advancing reconciliation initiatives, and reinforcing governance structures.

The President also directly appealed to Somaliland authorities to accept a prisoner exchange as a confidence-building measure designed to reduce tensions and prevent further escalation. He indicated that dialogue and humanitarian considerations were crucial for long-term stability, particularly after months of violence that displaced civilians and disrupted livelihoods in the region.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, who also spoke at the gathering, congratulated the new leadership, including President Firdhiye, Vice President Abdirashid Yusuf Jibriil, the regional parliament, and the cabinet. He encouraged them to prioritize service delivery, security, and reconciliation, describing these as fundamental elements for sustainable state-building.

“You did not opt for division or estrangement,” Hamza remarked. “You selected peace, unity, good neighborliness, and state-building for the Federal Republic of Somalia.”

Addressing the broader Somali public, the prime minister stated that the country had entered a critical political phase demanding unity, courage, and collective accountability. He stressed that Somalia’s advancement depended on national solidarity rather than division or competition.

“We need solidarity among the Somali people; this is the moment to defend our nation, our unity, and our values,” he said.

Hamza also commended communities in northeastern Somalia for what he described as their role in restoring the Somali flag to the north during a challenging period. He noted that their actions had strengthened national cohesion and demonstrated commitment to the country’s territorial integrity at a time of political uncertainty.

The inauguration ceremony drew significant international attention, highlighting the broader geopolitical interest in developments in northern Somalia.

Ambassadors from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Sudan attended the event, alongside a ministerial delegation from Djibouti and other diplomatic representatives. Their presence was widely seen as an indication of support for the new regional administration and Somalia’s federal system. Several Members of Parliament from Kenya also participated in the event.