Al Shabaab claimed responsibility for a bomb attack on Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy in Mogadishu, resulting in deaths and injuries. Egypt condemned the act and affirmed support for Somalia. President Mohamud was reported safe following the incident, which marks Al Shabaab’s first direct attack on him since 2014.
On Tuesday, the convoy of Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, was targeted in Mogadishu, resulting in fatalities and injuries. The Islamist group Al Shabaab claimed responsibility for the bomb attack. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Egyptian government condemned this act of terrorism, emphasizing its rejection of any forms of violence that threaten the security and stability of Somalia.
Egypt’s official statement indicated strong disapproval of the attack, declaring, “Egypt expresses its strong condemnation of this criminal terrorist act, and rejects all forms of violence and terrorism aimed at destabilising security and stability in the sisterly Federal Republic of Somalia.” The statement also conveyed Egypt’s solidarity with President Mohamud and the Somali populace.
Following the incident, two senior officials confirmed to Reuters that President Mohamud was unharmed. Presidential advisor Zakariye Hussein posted on the platform X that the President was safe and en route to the front lines. Eyewitnesses, including soldiers and local residents, confirmed the impact on the president’s convoy, with reports indicating four fatalities in the immediate aftermath of the attack.
In a communication on its Telegram channel, Al Shabaab stated, “Our fighters targeted a convoy of vehicles carrying Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as they were leaving the presidential palace and heading to the airport.” This marked the first direct attack on President Mohamud by Al Shabaab since 2014, highlighting the ongoing violence in the region.
Egypt also expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and the Somali nation, wishing a swift recovery for those who sustained injuries in the attack.
In conclusion, the attack on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy by Al Shabaab underscores the persistent threat of terrorism in Somalia. Egypt’s strong condemnation reflects its commitment to supporting Somali stability and expresses solidarity with the affected families. This incident marks a significant escalation, as it is the first direct assault on President Mohamud since 2014, indicating ongoing challenges in securing peace in the region.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
