CIA Director Burns Makes Covert Visit to Somalia Amid Rising Tensions in Horn of Africa

MOGADISHU, Somalia — CIA Director William J. Burns conducted a clandestine visit to Mogadishu on Thursday, signaling the United States' increased attention on the Horn of Africa amid escalating regional tensions.

During his encounter with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Burns focused on enhancing intelligence sharing, refining counter-terrorism efforts, and navigating the geopolitical fallout from Ethiopia's recent maritime deal.

The visit coincides with heightened frictions following Ethiopia's controversial agreement in January 2024 to secure a 20-kilometer coastal strip from Somaliland, which Somalia denounced as a sovereignty violation. In retaliation, Somalia recalled Ethiopian diplomats and demanded Ethiopian military withdrawal by year's end. Despite protests, Somaliland insists on proceeding with the deal.

Tensions escalated further in October when President Mohamud joined a summit in Asmara with Egyptian and Eritrean leaders, forming a security alliance aimed at curbing Ethiopia's regional influence, potentially leading to wider conflict.

This marks Burns's second trip to Mogadishu this year, previously arriving in January after a U.S. operation against an Iranian arms shipment that resulted in missing SEALs. His visits underscore ongoing U.S.-Somali efforts against Al-Shabaab, despite significant American military aid, the group persists.

Burns's regional tour includes recent stops in Kenya and Egypt, discussing broader security issues including Sudan's conflict and Red Sea threats. He is slated to visit Addis Ababa, indicating U.S. efforts to mediate in Ethiopia's shifting alliances and regional disputes.

The U.S., traditionally focused on counter-terrorism in Somalia, faces complexities with Somalia's new alliances, potentially stirring further instability and strengthening Al-Shabaab's position in the region.

GAROWE ONLINE