Trump Advocates U.S. Support for Somalia Against Houthi Threats

Former President Donald Trump announced a more aggressive military stance towards the Houthis, promoting support for Somalia in combating terrorism. He cited previous successes against ISIS and discussed Somalia’s proposal for U.S. access to military bases, amid ongoing tensions with Somaliland regarding territorial controls.

Former President Donald Trump recently addressed the situation regarding the Houthis, asserting that the removal of regulatory obstacles from the Biden administration allows U.S. military forces to extend protection to Somalia against terrorist threats. In a post on Truth Social, he declared, “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.”

Trump emphasized support for the Somali populace, urging them to disallow the Houthis from establishing a foothold in their nation. He likened the current military empowerment to prior successful operations against ISIS, which he stated were effectively concluded within weeks under General Daniel Caine’s leadership.

Historically, United States military engagement has involved airstrikes and support for Somali forces combating the al-Shabab extremist group and ISIS affiliates. Recently, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud sought to deepen U.S. involvement by proposing exclusive access to Somali military bases and ports, which escalated tensions with the breakaway region of Somaliland.

In a draft letter dated March 16, President Mohamud expressed intentions to grant the U.S. “exclusive operational control” over strategic locations, such as Berbera and Baledogle air bases, to strengthen American presence in the region. This was confirmed as an authentic draft by a senior Somali official who was not authorized to speak publicly.

Notably, Berbera is located in Somaliland, a region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has yet to gain international recognition despite operating its own government and holding elections. The proposal aims to prevent foreign competitors from establishing influence in the critical maritime corridor.

In conclusion, President Trump’s statements reflect an intensified U.S. military strategy towards supporting Somalia against terrorist threats by eliminating bureaucratic limitations established during the Biden administration. The active correspondence between Somali leadership and the U.S. further illustrates a strategic shift aimed at stabilizing the region. The complexities surrounding Somaliland’s declaration of independence continue to pose challenges in fostering an agreeable military and political landscape.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com