Somalia omits UAE in initial condemnation of Iranian attacks on Gulf states

MOGADISHU, Somalia (MNTV) — Somalia on Sunday condemned recent attacks by Iran on several Gulf countries but initially omitted the United Arab Emirates from its official statement, highlighting continuing tensions between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi.

In a statement issued by Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government strongly denounced Iranian strikes targeting Gulf states, describing them as violations of sovereignty and international law.

The statement named Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain and Oman as affected countries.

The UAE, however, was not included in the initial list, despite reports that it was also targeted during the escalation.

The omission comes months after Somalia cut diplomatic and security ties with the UAE over disputes related to sovereignty and port agreements. Relations between the two countries have remained strained following disagreements over Emirati involvement in strategic Somali ports.

In a separate communication later referenced by officials, Somalia also condemned attacks on the UAE and reaffirmed its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all Gulf states.

The developments underscore Somalia’s attempt to balance its opposition to regional military escalation while navigating its own diplomatic rift with Abu Dhabi.

The Iranian attacks have drawn widespread condemnation across the region, with Gulf states calling for restraint and respect for international law amid rising tensions.