Government Forces Withdraw from Some Battle Areas

The federal forces of Somalia have begun to withdraw from some of the...

The federal forces of Somalia have begun to withdraw from some of the battle areas from yesterday afternoon until early this morning, as shown by recorded footage.

Among the areas the forces have vacated is the vicinity of the former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire's house, where a fierce battle occurred, and the forces were returned to their previous positions late yesterday afternoon.

Reports indicate that President Hassan Sheikh ordered the forces to be returned to Hassan Ali Khaire's house, as pressures on the government and opposition to stop the fighting are increasing.

The European Union has called on the leaders of the federal government of Somalia and the opposition to urgently stop the fighting and engage in talks to seek a resolution to the renewed conflict.

“We reiterate our joint statement, which has now been joined by +2 new signatories. The violence that erupted in Mogadishu is deeply concerning (and alarming), and we regret the loss of life and injuries. The Somali people need peace, stability, and development. We urge the political leaders on all sides to return to dialogue and resolve disputes peacefully,” the EU statement said.