Mogadishu: Several Arab countries strongly condemned Wednesday a failed assassination attempt on Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, reaffirming their support for Somalia’s security and stability.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Somali government announced that an explosion Tuesday in Mogadishu was an attempt on Mohamud’s life by al-Shabaab terrorists. The Information Ministry stated that Mohamud’s convoy was attacked at approximately 10.32 a.m. (0732GMT) in the Xamar-Jajab district of Mogadishu. He was on his way to the Mogadishu International Airport to join troops on the frontlines in Hirshabelle state.
The al-Qaeda-affiliated terror group claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting that it targeted the president’s convoy en route to the airport. In response, United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed contacted his Somali counterpart on Wednesday to inquire about his wellbeing following the attack. He extended condolences to the victims’ families and wished a swift recovery for the injured.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry reiterated its stance against violence and terrorism, conveying condolences to the victims’ families and the Somali government and people. Jordan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Sufyan Qudah, condemned political violence, especially those targeting public figures.
Egypt also denounced the attack, rejecting violence and terrorism aimed at destabilizing Somalia. Saudi Arabia expressed solidarity with Somalia, emphasizing its rejection of violence and extremism. Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry reiterated its stance against terrorism and affirmed support for Somalia’s security efforts.
Bahrain condemned the attack and offered condolences to the victims’ families and the Somali government. Yemen’s Foreign Ministry also denounced the assassination attempt, extending condolences and solidarity. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed strong condemnation of the attack.
The Arab League described it as a ‘blatant assault’ and reaffirmed support for Somalia against terrorism. It urged the international community to intensify efforts against terror financing. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha condemned the act, expressing solidarity and backing Somalia’s anti-terrorism efforts.