Friday, 14-Feb-2025 {HMC} – The Conflict Between Puntland and ISIS: The ongoing conflict between the Puntland forces and the ISIS group in the Cal Miskaad mountain range of the Bari region has led to the displacement of 10,000 households from their homes.
The Puntland administration has accused the ISIS group of committing oppression and causing displacement, with the group engaging in activities that harm civilians living in those areas.
ISIS is a militant group that fights against the Somali government and the Puntland administration, contributing to destruction and instability in the region.
Displacement and the Situation of the People: Puntland has stated that the displaced individuals are currently residing in other peaceful areas under the Bari region, but their living conditions are extremely difficult.
The Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Relief and Disaster Management of Puntland, Ahmed Said Qolombi, reported that these displaced people lack sufficient food, though efforts are underway to assist them.
Additionally, health and clean water are among the urgent needs faced by these displaced people.
Accusations Against the Federal Government: There have been accusations directed at the Federal Government of Somalia regarding the conflict between Puntland and ISIS.
Some Puntland officials have accused the Federal Government of failing to provide adequate support to Puntland, particularly in the fight against ISIS.
They also claim that the Federal Government has not delivered sufficient aid, as the federal administration has not fully participated in Puntland’s relief and security efforts.
The Federal Government is also accused of not responding promptly to the security situation in the Bari region, which has been affected by the presence of extremist groups operating in the area.
This has led to a sense that Puntland is facing the crisis alone, without receiving adequate support from the Federal Government.
The Relationship Between Puntland and the Federal Government: Although Puntland and the Federal Government are both part of Somalia’s central government, there are disagreements and differences in how security and relief issues should be managed across the country.
Puntland, being the strongest regional authority in northern Somalia, has expressed concern that the Federal Government is not sufficiently supporting its efforts in fighting and preventing extremist groups.
Relief Efforts and Support for Puntland: Puntland is engaged in efforts to assist the displaced population, with confirmation that humanitarian organizations and international groups are contributing to the relief efforts.
However, the aid remains limited to the local and regional levels, and Puntland has called on the Federal Government to take a more active role in supporting the region and mitigating the crisis caused by the conflict and displacement.
Conclusion: The conflict between the Federal Government and the Puntland administration may affect the ongoing fight to eliminate ISIS, as genuine cooperation and full support are crucial for the success of the battle.
The Federal Government is urgently needed to support Puntland and participate in security, relief, and services needed by the displaced people.
The joint efforts of both parties are essential to successfully defeating ISIS and resolving the broader situation in the region.
