Somali President heads to UNGA with focus on security, Gaza conflict

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has left for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting in New York, where he will join global leaders to address several security-related issues.

The 80th UNGA takes place at a time when world leaders are under pressure to address global challenges, including security, climate change, and sustainable development, with peace, security, and stability being an urgent concern.

President Mohamud is expected to highlight Somalia’s progress on security, governance, and economic reforms, as well as call for stronger international support for the country’s state-building efforts — world leaders are major investors in Somalia’s stabilization mission.

But Hassan Sheikh Mohamud could likely delve into the Israeli and Palestinian conflict, which has left thousands of people dead both in Gaza and the West Bank, with many countries, including Somalia, now pushing for a two-state solution.

Abukar Osman, Somalia’s permanent representative to the UN, delivered an impassioned speech, condemning the council's "profound moral failing" to act on the Gaza crisis. This informs the president's agenda in the UNGA.

"The ambassador's powerful words echoed the sentiments of the E10, the group of elected non-permanent members who put forward the vetoed resolution," state media reports.

"While the US veto blocked a legally binding ceasefire, the overwhelming 14-1 vote, with Somalia in favor, served as a powerful moral victory, highlighting the clear global consensus for peace and justice."

The US is under pressure to withdraw support for Israel, which is accused of overseeing mass murder and genocide in Gaza. With many countries pushing for a two-state solution, the US is suggesting the resettlement of Palestinians in different parts of the world.

GAROWE ONLINE