Somalia’s Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, has provided detailed remarks on national sovereignty, regional developments, and foreign interference during an interview with Al Jazeera.

Addressing the issue of Somaliland, Minister Fiqi stated that narratives promoting secession are inconsistent with realities on the ground. He noted that nearly half of the northern regions are administered by authorities aligned with the Federal Government of Somalia, adding that many citizens and intellectuals in the north-west oppose separation and support the country’s unity. He commended what he described as their commitment to a shared national future.

The Defence Minister emphasized that calls for secession are being driven primarily by political elites in the north-west, while a large segment of the population—whom he described as having a strong historical legacy of struggle for freedom—rejects any attempt to divide the country.

Commenting on regional political dynamics, Minister Fiqi drew comparisons between the leader of Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council, Aidarous Al-Zubaidi, and the leadership in Somaliland, suggesting that Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” could face a similar political outcome in the near future.

On questions regarding Israel’s alleged interference in Somalia, the Minister said that a number of countries have opposed what he described as violations of Somalia’s sovereignty. He confirmed that Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Türkiye, Qatar, and other states have expressed support for Somalia’s position.

Responding to reports that Aidarous Al-Zubaidi may have transited through Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport, Minister Fiqi stated that the Federal Government is investigating the matter and will issue an official statement once credible information is verified.

When asked whether Somalia would consider military options to counter foreign interference, the Defence Minister underscored Somalia’s long history of resistance against colonial powers. He described Somalis as a resilient people who do not surrender and who have fought for centuries to defend their sovereignty, ultimately overcoming colonial domination.