DOOLOW, Somalia, Aug 9 – Tensions are escalating in Somalia’s southwestern Gedo region after reports confirmed that Ethiopia has increased its military presence in the border town of Doolow, sparking fears among residents of a potential armed confrontation.
In the past several hours, new Ethiopian troop reinforcements have arrived in Doolow, where Ethiopia already maintains a military footprint. The development has alarmed civilians in the area, who are increasingly fearful that a clash could erupt at any moment.
The tensions come just a day after Ethiopia’s deadline reportedly expired for Somali federal troops to withdraw from the nearby town of Beled Hawo. Ethiopia had allegedly demanded the withdrawal following recent military confrontations in the area.
Last week, Somali federal forces launched an operation and took full control of Beled Hawo from Jubaland regional troops, who had been administering the town.
The move further deepened the long-standing political and security tensions between Somalia’s central government and the Jubaland administration.
Now, the presence of additional Ethiopian troops — perceived by many as backing Jubaland in the standoff — is viewed by local observers as a dangerous escalation.
“People are living in fear. They don’t know what will happen next,” a resident told local Radio Shabelle under condition of anonymity.
Ethiopia’s increased involvement in Gedo has renewed accusations of interference in Somalia’s internal affairs. While Ethiopia is a key troop-contributing country to the African Union Mission, the latest troop movements appear to be outside that framework, with no clear mandate.
The Somali federal government has remained largely silent on Ethiopia’s unilateral deployments, a stance that has drawn criticism from some political analysts and civil society leaders who fear the crisis in Gedo could spiral into wider conflict.
The Gedo region has long been a flashpoint in the rivalry between the Somali federal government and Jubaland, with control of key towns frequently shifting hands amid military standoffs and political disputes.
The involvement of Ethiopian forces risks adding an external dimension to the already fragile situation.
