Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have strongly condemned the attack targeting the convoy of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who was heading toward the frontlines of the ongoing conflict.

A statement from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shared on X (formerly Twitter), expressed the kingdom’s firm disapproval of the assault. The statement reiterated Saudi Arabia’s steadfast support for the Federal Republic of Somalia and its people in efforts to counter any threats to the country’s security and stability. It also reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s position against all forms of violence, terrorism, and extremism.

Meanwhile, the UAE also joined in condemning the attack. Sheikh Shakhboot Nahyan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, emphasized that the UAE strongly opposes any acts of violence and terrorism aimed at destabilizing security and violating international law.

The Somali Federal Government confirmed that the attack was thwarted, with President Hassan Sheikh safely reaching his intended destination.