Las Anod conflict (2023–present)

{{Main|Somaliland–Puntland dispute}}

{{Further|Battle of Las Anod (2007)}}During 1991, Somaliland declared an independent state within the borders of the former British Somaliland. The Somali Dhulbahante clan populates the east of this territory – primarily in the Sool, Sanaag and Cayn regions. The Dhulbahante were opposed to the attempt to secede from Somalia and did not fully participate in Somaliland elections in protest.{{Cite web |last=Haji |first=Mohammed |date=10 May 2023 |title=Conflict in disputed Las Anod dims Somaliland's diplomatic dreams |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2023/5/10/conflict-in-disputed-las-anod-dims-somalilands-diplomatic-dreams |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=Al Jazeera |language=en}} Ideologically, the Dhulbahante were near unanimous in their rejection of secession. In 2003, Las Anod came under the control of the unionist Puntland state.

During October 2007, the Somaliland army took over the city during the Battle of Las Anod against Puntland forces. After coming under control of Somaliland, the Dhulbahante residents of the city experienced insecurity.{{Cite web |last=Stremple |first=Paul |date=2023-11-06 |title=The Fight for Independence Has Drawn Many Somalis From the Diaspora to Las Anod |url=https://newlinesmag.com/reportage/the-fight-for-independence-has-drawn-many-somalis-from-the-diaspora-to-las-anod/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=New Lines Magazine |language=en}} In particular, the Raad Peace Research Institute in Mogadishu reported that this control led to "extreme political, economic, and social marginalization and subjugation of the Dhulbahante clan," including the assassinations of more than 120 prominent community leaders and clan elites.{{cite web |last=Dhaysane |first=Mohammed |date=22 February 2023 |title=At least 112 people killed in fighting in Somaliland |url=https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/at-least-112-people-killed-in-fighting-in-somaliland/2827391 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226143859/https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/at-least-112-people-killed-in-fighting-in-somaliland/2827391 |archive-date=26 February 2023 |access-date=26 February 2023 |website=Anadolu Agency}}

File:Lasanood.png in 2023]]

The conflict was effectively ignited by the assassination of popular opposition politician Abdifatah Abdullahi Abdi who was shot after he left a mosque. After his murder, students took to the streets, protesting against the Somaliland government who they believed responsible for the killing. Somaliland police fired live ammunition and gunned down protesters, killing more than twenty people and sending shockwaves through the community. Cellphone footage of the killings rapidly proliferated abroad via Facebook and WhatsApp. Local clan militias began organizing to retaliate.{{cite web |date=31 December 2022 |title=More than 20 'pro-greater Somalia' protesters killed in Lasanod |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/more-than-20-pro-greater-somalia-protesters-killed-in-lasanod |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230211030831/https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/more-than-20-pro-greater-somalia-protesters-killed-in-lasanod |archive-date=11 February 2023 |access-date=26 February 2023 |website=Garowe Online}} In December 2022, civil demonstrations against the Somaliland government and unrest began to spread northwest across the Sool region, from Taleh to Kalabaydh, Hudun, Boocame and Tukaraq.{{cite web|last=Kulkarni|first=Pavan|date=18 January 2023|title=Protests in Breakaway Somaliland Call for Reunification with Somalia|url=https://towardfreedom.org/story/archives/africa-archives/protests-in-breakaway-somaliland-call-for-reunification-with-somalia/|website=Toward Freedom|access-date=26 February 2023|archive-date=29 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230129193748/https://towardfreedom.org/story/archives/africa-archives/protests-in-breakaway-somaliland-call-for-reunification-with-somalia/|url-status=live}} Somaliland troops withdrew from the city to their Sool outposts and encircled the city.

Following mass protest that continued from December into January 2023, the withdrawal of the Somaliland troops paved the way for the return of the supreme Garad of Dhulbahante, Garad Jama Garad Ali – a community leader exiled from Las Anod since 2007. Rumor spread of a grand meeting of all Dhulbahante clan elders, followed by speculation that the elders would vote to exile Somaliland security forces from the city.{{Cite web |title=Grand entry of exiled traditional elders in Las Anod major concerns for Somaliland |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/grand-entry-of-exiled-traditional-elders-in-las-anod-major-concerns-for-somaliland |access-date=3 March 2023 |website=Garowe Online |date=30 June 2020 |language=en |archive-date=3 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303202534/https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/grand-entry-of-exiled-traditional-elders-in-las-anod-major-concerns-for-somaliland |url-status=live }}

Before the war had started, most Dhulbahante commanders and their troops serving in the Somaliland security forces had already quit or deserted. Before the fighting had broken out around 4,000 trained troops and their equipment defected. In February 2023 local leaders in Las Anod declared that they would “never accept or participate in Somaliland's separatist programme” and announced their allegiance to Somalia.

File:Khatumo flag over Las Anod night-sky during Khatumo revolution 5th January 2023.png

6 February 2023 was a decisive moment in the conflict. A declaration of independence was uploaded on social media stating the regions of Sool, Sanaag and Cayn rejected the rule of Somaliland. Rejecting the rule of both the secessionist Somaliland and the unionist Puntland governments,{{Cite web |date=2024-08-25 |title=Sannad ka dib waa sidee Goojacadde iyo xaaladda Laascaanood |url=https://www.bbc.com/somali/articles/c4gl71d14rzo |access-date=2024-09-19 |website=BBC News Somali |language=so}} the Dhulbahante clan elders declared their intent to form a state named "SSC-Khatumo" within the framework of the Federal Government of Somalia.

Somaliland armed forces had assumed they could capture the city in a single day. At 6 am Somaliland forces stationed north of Las Anod began shelling the city.{{Cite book |last=Hoehne |first=Markus V. |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371409639 |title=The Conflict over Lasanod: Longterm and Immediate Factors, and Prospects for Settlement |date=June 2023 |publisher=Raad Peace Research Institute, University of Leipzig}} Fighting broke out in Las Anod between Somaliland troops and Dhulbahante militias in the Sayadka Hill suburb, with shots heard in the streets surrounding Hamdi Hotel where Somaliland dignitaries were staying.{{Cite web |date=6 February 2023 |title=Somalia: Fresh fighting breaks out in Las Anod city |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-fresh-fighting-breaks-out-in-las-anod-city |access-date=19 March 2023 |website=Garowe Online |language=en |archive-date=19 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230319131448/https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-fresh-fighting-breaks-out-in-las-anod-city |url-status=live }} The fighting on the first day of the war was centered on Hotel Hamadi in the east of the city, and by the days end the Somaliland representatives and their forces who had still been present were driven out.

On the first day of fighting 34 people were killed and 164 were injured during the Somaliland army bombardment of the city. Tens of thousands of residents fled the city and became internally displaced persons. The majority of businesses in Las Anod closed and most residents became unemployed. The towns economy collapsed as residents fled artillery shelling.

For nearly 20 days SSC forces battled the Somaliland army on the edge of Las Anod, engaging in fierce house-to-house combat. Somaliland army forces attempting to assert control over the city found the tide turning against them as more and more SSC forces were raised to reinforce its outgunned defenders. Consequently, Somaliland security forces switched tactics to bombarding the city indiscriminately with artillery. As a result, more than 150,000 people, mostly women, children and the elderly, fled the city to seek refuge. Las Anod fell into a state of siege. A force of around 7,000 to 8,000 SSC fighters was raised to defend the city and its environs, 70% of whom were from the local Dhulbahante clan.

During the first weeks of armed clashes, Somaliland forces stationed at the nearby base of Gojacade cut the water supply to Las Anod. A water shortage ensued in the city that significantly impact both the civilian population and the fighters present.

File:Laascaanood hospital artillery damage late February.jpg

On 8 February, the supreme Garad of Dhulbahante, Garad Jama Garad Ali, accused the Somaliland government of genocide, called for peace and declared Las Anod's intent to self-determination and be governed from Mogadishu under the Federal Government of Somalia.{{cite web |last1=Ali |first1=Garad Jama |author1-link=Garad Jama Garad Ali |date=19 March 2023 |title=BBC World News - Garad Jama Ali declares Dulbahante intent to merge Sool with federal Somali govt |url=https://x.com/JuneydiFarah/status/1623390488437858320 |access-date=19 March 2023 |website=Twitter |publisher=BBC World News |language=en |format=video}} Many analysts and locals viewed Somaliland President Muse Bihi as the driver of violence. Hate speech against the Dhulbahante clan, largely inspired by Bihi, was widely spread on social media.{{Cite web |date=16 March 2023 |title=Uneasy peace at Las Anod |url=https://www.africa-confidential.com:1070/article-preview/id/14357/Uneasy_peace_at_Las_Anod |url-access=subscription |website=Africa Confidential}}

That month several heavy battles occurred when Somaliland forces attempted to overrun SSC forces defending Las Anod. Throughout February, the Somaliland army bombarded the city with rifle fire and artillery. After failing to take the city during a fierce battle on 25 February 2024, all Somaliland army units stationed in eastern Sool region were dispatched to the military base of Gojacade as reinforcements.{{Cite web |last=Hoehne |first=Markus Virgil |date=2023-06-12 |title=The Dynamics of Conflict over Lasanod: Ongoing Fighting, Administration Building, Failed Mediation and Forecast |url=https://africanarguments.org/2023/06/the-dynamics-of-conflict-over-lasanod-ongoing-fighting-administration-building-failed-mediation-and-forecast/ |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=African Arguments |language=en-GB |quote=Somaliland, on the other hand, had amassed some 6-8000 soldiers around Lasanod between Maraga (east), Gooja’ade (north) and near Hargaga (northwest), plus maybe 1-2000 armed policemen.}} The fighting killed 145 and injured 1080 according to public hospital director Abdimajid Sugulle.{{Cite news|last=Faruk|first=Omar|date=4 March 2023|title=Doctor in embattled Somaliland city says at least 145 dead|language=en-US|website=Washington Post|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/somaliland-somalia-conflict/2023/03/04/658c647a-ba7b-11ed-b0df-8ca14de679ad_story.html|access-date=10 March 2023|issn=0190-8286|archive-date=14 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230314172120/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/somaliland-somalia-conflict/2023/03/04/658c647a-ba7b-11ed-b0df-8ca14de679ad_story.html|url-status=dead}} 90% of Lasanod residents were displaced, and the region produced 185,000 internally displaced people and 60,000 refugees within the first month of fighting.{{cite web |last=Ahmed |first=Kaamil |date=22 February 2023 |title=Tens of thousands of refugees flee from Somaliland clashes |url=https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2023/feb/22/tens-of-thousands-of-refugees-flee-from-somaliland-clashes |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230225094326/https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2023/feb/22/tens-of-thousands-of-refugees-flee-from-somaliland-clashes |archive-date=25 February 2023 |access-date=26 February 2023 |website=The Guardian}} Two weeks later on March 7th, the UNHCR reported some 100,000 refugees from Las Anod in the Dollo Zone of Ethiopia.{{Cite web |date=7 March 2023 |title=UNHCR teams and partners rush assistance to some 100,000 newly arrived Somali refugees in hard-to-reach area of Ethiopia |url=https://www.unhcr.org/uk/news/briefing/2023/3/64070a444/unhcr-teams-partners-rush-assistance-100000-newly-arrived-somali-refugees.html |access-date=17 March 2023 |website=UNHCR |archive-date=17 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317173902/https://www.unhcr.org/uk/news/briefing/2023/3/64070a444/unhcr-teams-partners-rush-assistance-100000-newly-arrived-somali-refugees.html |url-status=dead }}

Until the end of February 2024, the fighting was between the Somaliland army and the local Dhulbahante clan. Among the clans fighters were professional soldiers who had defected from the Somaliland army and others had taken leave from the Puntland army or from the Somali National Army to join the fighting. The vast majority of defectors from the Somaliland army and other volunteers were natives of Las Anod and the surrounding countryside. A number of fellow Harti-Darod (including Warsangali, Dashiishe & Majeerteen) clans announced their support for the Las Anod Dhulbahante.{{Cite web |date=2023-05-19 |title=Time for Somaliland and the Dhulbahante to Talk |url=https://www.crisisgroup.org/africa/horn-africa/somaliland/time-somaliland-and-dhulbahante-talk |access-date=2023-06-03 |website=Crisis Group |language=en}}{{Cite news |last=Hoehne |first=Markus Virgil |date=13 June 2023 |title=Somalia: The Dynamics of Conflict Over Lasanod - Ongoing Fighting, Administration Building, Failed Mediation and Forecast |url=https://allafrica.com/stories/202306130056.html |access-date=14 June 2023 |work=African Arguments |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Culay |first=Shiine |title=Ciidankii Majeerteen iyo Warsangeli oo Laascaanood galay |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qQioKqZksQ |access-date=11 June 2023 |website=YouTube |date=28 February 2023 |language=so}} The Dhulbahante are receiving money, equipment and fighters from their allies.

The Somaliland army deployed approximately 28 guuto (battalions) comprising 200 to 400 men around Las Anod during this period, supplemented by over a thousand armed police forces. In total Somaliland forces deployed 6,000 to 8,000 troops for the operation. On 2 March, the mayor of Las Anod reported that Somaliland forces were bombing public buildings from the surrounding countryside including government institutions and hospitals. The UN also reported a casualty count of over 200 deaths.{{Cite web |date=2 March 2023 |title=More than 200 killed, nearly 700 wounded in Somaliland clashes |url=https://www.trtworld.com/africa/more-than-200-killed-nearly-700-wounded-in-somaliland-clashes-65785 |access-date=18 March 2023 |website=TRT World |language=en |archive-date=18 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230318173413/https://www.trtworld.com/africa/more-than-200-killed-nearly-700-wounded-in-somaliland-clashes-65785 |url-status=live }} On March 16, Somaliland troops were reported to be shelling civilians from the surrounding area.{{Cite web |date=16 March 2023 |title=Somalia: Somaliland asked to withdraw troops from SSC regions |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-somaliland-asked-to-withdraw-troops-from-ssc-regions |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230316151102/https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-somaliland-asked-to-withdraw-troops-from-ssc-regions |archive-date=16 March 2023 |access-date=17 March 2023 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} After Ethiopia requested the Somaliland army ease the bombardment, artillery shelling ceased for a time. Somaliland security forces arrested protestors who had demonstrated in other parts of the region in support of the SSC fighters. Due to fighting with Al-Shabaab and pressure from the Dhulbahante, both the regional Puntland government and the federal Somali government have effectively stayed out of the dispute. On 26 March 2023, Somaliland forces launched a major three-pronged offensive on Las Anod but failed to make any headway after fierce fighting. Their forces reportedly sustained heavy casualties. Another offensive was attempted on 31 March but also failed.

File:SSC Khaatumo tank facing off with Somaliland troops during Las Anod war.jpg

Seasonal rains which began during March and grew heavier in April dampened the fighting. During April 2023, the fighting began to stall and became highly sporadic. By May 2023, the five hospitals in the city recorded 373 killed and 2311 injured among the local population. On 7 June, the UN Security Council released a statement reaffirming its full respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence, and unity of Somalia. They also stated, "The members of the Security Council called for the immediate withdrawal of 'Somaliland' security forces and urged all parties to exercise restraint, refrain from provocative actions, incitement to violence, and inflammatory rhetoric. This is in order to de-escalate the situation on the ground, rebuild trust, and create the conditions for peace."{{cite web |date=June 7, 2023 |title=Security Council Press Statement on Situation in Somalia |url=https://press.un.org/en/2023/sc15313.doc.htm }} The following day, the Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement expressing their view that the UNSC was "misinformed about the facts on the ground."{{Cite web |date=June 8, 2023 |title=Hargeisa, Somaliland, June 8th, 2023 - Press Release on UN Security Council's June 7th Statement. |url=https://mfa.govsomaliland.org/article/hargeisa-somaliland-june-8th-2023-press-release-un-security?category=press-release }} On 11 July, Somaliland troops were reported to have shelled a health facilities and public infrastructures in Las Anod, destroying 2 ambulances and causing dozens of casualties (including healthcare workers and patients).{{Cite web |date=2023-07-15 |title=Somaliland expresses deep concern over WHO statement on Las'anod conflict |url=https://hornobserver.com:443/articles/2334/Somaliland-expresses-deep-concern-over-WHO-statement-on-Lasanod-conflict |access-date=2023-07-18 |website=hornobserver.com |language=English}} The World Health Organization published a press release condemning the attack on the facility and the shelling of hospitals.{{Cite web |date=13 July 2023 |title=WHO condemns attack on health care facility in Las Canood, Somaliland |url=https://www.emro.who.int/media/news/who-condemns-attack-on-health-care-facility-in-las-canood-somaliland.html |access-date=2023-07-18 |website=WHO EMRO |place=Cairo/Mogadishu |language=en}} In response, the Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the statement as "disturbing" and claimed that they were fighting clan militias and Al-Shabaab terrorists, to ensure "that those in need have access to these services and other humanitarian assistance".{{Cite web |title=Somaliland Government Response to WHO Statement Regarding Las'anod |url=https://mfa.govsomaliland.org/article/somaliland-government-response-who-statement-regarding-lasan |access-date=18 July 2023 |website=Republic of Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation}}File:Independence day celebration in Las Anod.jpg celebration in Las Anod]]By early August, the conflict had come to a stalemate. Around 20,000 fighters were involved.{{Cite web |last=Barnett |first=James |date=2023-08-07 |title=Inside the Newest Conflict in Somalia's Long Civil War |url=https://newlinesmag.com/reportage/inside-the-newest-conflict-in-somalias-long-civil-war/ |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=New Lines Magazine |language=en}} On 16 August, famous Somali traditional poet Abwan Jama Kadiye was reportedly killed by a mortar shelling in Las Anod. Both Somaliland and SCC-Khatumo blamed each other for his death.{{Cite web |date=2023-08-17 |title=Abwaan Jaamac Kadiye oo lagu aasay Laascaanood |url=https://www.voasomali.com/a/abwaan-jaamac-kadiye-oo-lagu-aasay-laascaanood/7229292.html |access-date=2023-08-28 |website=VOA |language=so}}{{Cite web |date=2020-06-30 |title=Tragedy in Somalia: Renowned Poet Jama Kadiye Elmi Killed in bombardment |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/puntland/tragedy-in-somalia-renowned-poet-jama-kadiye-ilmi-killed |access-date=2023-09-08 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}} The loss of a respected poet and community member sparked outrage among the residents of Khatumo and Somalia. Some individuals within Khatumo even expressed a desire for justice and retribution in response to the incident. They indicated a potential intent to take revenge on Somaliland, given their suspicions.{{Cite web |date=2023-08-17 |title=Garaad Mukhtaar Garaad Cali Buraale: "Xabaasha Gambara ee AUN Abwaan Jaamac Kadiye waxa xigi doona xabaalo badan oo Hargeysa & Burco" |url=https://www.daljir.com/garaad-mukhtaar-xabaasha-gambara-ee-aun-abwaan-jaamac-kadiye-waxa-xigi-doona-xabaalo-badan-oo-hargeysa-burco-ah/ |access-date=2023-08-28 |website=Radio Daljir |language=so-SO}}

On August 25, SCC-Khatumo forces launched an attack on Somaliland forces on the outskirts of Las Anod, capturing two bases held by the Somaliland Army in Maraaga and Goojacade. After the unexpected defeat, the Somaliland forces fled, regrouping to Dhodida in the northwest. SSC-Khatumo claimed this advance also resulted in the capture of Dhuxun, Xargega, Golayeedhay, Canjiid, Adhi'adeye, Samakaab, Yagoori, Wadhake, and Guumays and their respective military bases. Additionally, they claimed to have captured a substantial amount of military equipment, including several T-54/T-55 tanks, multiple ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft autocannons, eight Fiat CM6614 vehicles, at least one BM-21 multiple rocket launcher, and various undisclosed military assets. They also claimed a significant quantity of weaponry was neutralized during this operation,{{Cite web |date=2023-08-26 |title=Waa imisa tirada maxaabiista iyo gaadiidka ay SSC sheegteen inay Somaliland uga qabsadeen Goojacadde? |url=https://www.bbc.com/somali/articles/c1exq2jj5p4o |access-date=2024-01-10 |website=BBC News Somali |language=so}} as well as the commander of Somaliland Army's 12th division.

The Economist reported that the Somaliland army suffered a "humiliating defeat" as a result of the war. President Muse Bihi was criticized by many for engaging in a crackdown instead of coming to a compromise.{{Cite news |title=The world’s next country? |url=https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2024/11/14/the-worlds-next-country |url-access=subscription |access-date=2024-11-14 |work=The Economist |issn=0013-0613 |quote=When local leaders in the eastern city of Las Anod rebelled last year against the government in Hargeisa, the capital, he cracked down when he might have compromised. The result was a brief civil war in which Somaliland’s national army suffered a humiliating defeat. Swathes of territory around Las Anod remain under the control of SSC-Khaatumo, a rival militia-backed movement that has called for a separate statelet within a federal Somalia.}} Hundreds of Somaliland troops were taken as prisoners of war by SSC forces. In the aftermath of the offensive, the Somaliland Ministry of Defense released a statement stating that its army withdrew from their positions in the eastern part of the Sool region for "strategic military purposes and is in the phase of reorganizing and preparing to counter the enemy." Somaliland added that some of its forces are missing after encountering difficulties in reaching their intended destinations.{{Cite web |date=2023-08-25 |title=Somali Army Captures Elbur District, a Major Al-Shabab Base |url=https://www.voanews.com/a/somali-army-captures-elbur-district-a-major-al-shabab-base/7241788.html |access-date=2024-01-10 |website=Voice of America |language=en}}{{Cite tweet |number=1695084481755992280 |user=SomalilandMod |title=Ciidanka Qaranku waxay ku jiraan dib-isku-habayn iyo diyaargarow culus oo cadowga lagaga hortagayo. Wasaaradda Gaashaandhiga JSL |author=Ministry of Defence {{!}} Somaliland |author-link=Ministry of Defence (Somaliland) |trans-title=The National Army is in the midst of reorganization and serious preparations to confront the enemy. Ministry of Defense JSL |df=dmy}}

File:SSC Khatumo press release 28 August 2023.jpg

Following their victory at Gojacade, the SSC-Khatumo administration announced on 28 August 2023, the end of eight months of conflict in the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions. They informed the Federal Government of Somalia, the international community, and the Somali people that the SSC had halted what they referred to as "Somaliland's war of aggression." The administration also stated that it had taken proactive measures to restore stability in the region. These efforts include a strategic withdrawal of forces from Las Anod, facilitating the return of displaced individuals, and launching social support programs. They further assured that detainees would be treated properly, with their rights respected in line with Islamic law, Somali traditions, and international standards.

Following the capture of the Goojacade army base by SSC-Khatumo, in Fall 2023 the frontline shifted to western Sool, emerging between the villages of Oog and Guumays. According to the Crisis Group, this division roughly corresponded to boundaries between Isaaq and Dhulbahante clans. In September both sides sent reinforcements to the area, raising fears of further clashes, but the new front line remained quiet.{{Cite web |date=2023-09-29 |title=October Alerts and September Trends 2023 |url=https://www.crisisgroup.org/crisiswatch/october-alerts-and-september-trends-2023 |access-date=2024-01-31 |website=International Crisis Group |language=en}}

{{Main|Battle of Erigavo|2024 Buhodle clashes|Battle of Jiidali (2025)}}

File:Nuh Ismail Tani in Oog.png

On 19 October 2023, Somalia officially recognized SSC-Khaatumo as a federal member state.{{Cite web |date=2023-12-26 |title=Somalia-Khatumo State focuses on autonomy, with risk of tribal clashes and separatist moods in the rest of the country - Robert Lansing Institute |url=https://lansinginstitute.org/2023/12/26/somalia-khatumo-state-focuses-on-autonomy-with-risk-of-tribal-clashes-and-separatist-moods-in-the-rest-of-the-country/ |access-date=2024-01-10 |website=lansinginstitute.org |language=en-US}} After August 2023 there were only brief outbreaks of armed conflict between SSC and Somaliland. During November 2023, their forces clashed in the villages of Buq-Dharkayn and Yeyle. This fighting increasingly involved militants from the Habr Je'lo sub-clan of the Isaaq, with various Somaliland politicians trying to mobilize the sub-clan to fight the SSC militias as they reside around contested territories.{{Cite web |last=Serwat |first=Ladd |last2=Nsaibia |first2=Héni |last3=Deetlefs |first3=Susanna |last4=Birru |first4=Jalale Getachew |date=2023-12-07 |title=Regional Overview: Africa {{!}} November 2023 |url=https://acleddata.com/2023/12/07/regional-overview-africa-november-2023/ |access-date=2024-01-10 |website=ACLED |language=en-US}} During December 2023, Somaliland claimed it arrested spies working for Somalia, Khatumo, and Puntland authorities.{{Cite web |date=2023-12-31 |title=January Alerts and December Trends 2023 |url=https://www.crisisgroup.org/crisiswatch/january-alerts-and-december-trends-2023 |access-date=2024-01-31 |website=www.crisisgroup.org |language=en}} Somaliland and SSC-Khatumo forces continued to reinforce positions near the frontline into the end of 2023.

A significant escalation in the number of Somaliland army troops being trained in Ethiopia over 2024 have raised concerns that President Muse Bihi is planning a new offensive aimed at conquering the land lost to the SSC regional administration during the summer of 2023. In July 2024 Africa Confidential observed that Bihi may have, "...calculated that a blitzkrieg in the east could restore confidence in him among members of the Isaq clan."{{Cite web |date=19 July 2024 |title=Djibouti joins fight against the Abiy-Bihi pact |url=https://www.africa-confidential.com/article-preview/id/15080/Djibouti_joins_fight_against_the_Abiy-Bihi_pact |url-access=subscription |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=Africa Confidential |language=en}} During a public speech to the army, Bihi declared that the war would not end until Somaliland achieved victory. As of August 2024, the front line was 100km west from the city of Las Anod, where a military stalemate presently holds, and the carrying of weapons is strictly prohibited within the city.{{Cite web |date=August 22, 2024 |title=Khaatumo Administration Bans Carrying Weapons in Las Anod |url=https://en.goobjoog.com/khaatumo-administration-bans-carrying-weapons-in-las-anod/ |access-date=August 30, 2024 |website=Goobjoog News}} SSC and Somaliland have still not exchanged prisoners of war, with the exception of two injured soldiers. On August 28, fighting briefly broke out in Erigavo District of the Sanaag region.{{Cite web |date=2024-08-28 |title=Fresh fighting in northern Somalia leaves 5 dead |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/fresh-fighting-in-northern-somalia-leaves-5-dead |access-date=2024-11-13 |website=Garowe Online |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2024-08-28 |title=Faahfaahinta xiisadda ka taagan Ceerigaabo |url=https://www.bbc.com/somali/articles/cq82447yz54o |access-date=2024-11-13 |website=BBC News Somali |language=so}}

File:SSB Civil Army.jpg]]

After a several-month long lull in major fighting, the 2024 Buhodle clashes erupted between SSC and SSB Habr Je'lo militias, backed by Somaliland forces, around the town of Qoorlugud in the Buhoodle District of Cayn region from October 31 and continued into November 1, 2024.{{Cite web |title=UNHCR Somalia - Flash Alert 18 Escalating Clan Conflict in Buuhoodle District, Togdheer Region Displaces Over 26,000 Individuals |url=https://data.unhcr.org/en/documents/details/112279 |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=UNHCR Operational Data Portal (ODP) |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=1 November 2024 |title=Heavy casualties as Somaliland, SSC-Khatumo forces clash in Ain area |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2024/Nov/198740/heavy_casualties_as_somaliland_ssc_khatumo_forces_clash_in_ain_area.aspx |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=1 November 2024 |title=Dagaal Ciidamada SSC Khaatumo iyo Kuwa SSB Ku Dhexmaray Jiida u Dhaxaysa Qurilugud iyo Buuhoodle |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2024/Oct/wararka_maanta31-188287.htm |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=Hiiraan Online}}{{Cite web |first= |date=2024-11-01 |title=Dagaal-beeleedyo ka dhacay degmooyin hoostaga Buuhoodle. |url=https://somali-memo.info/articles/20414/Dagaal-beeleedyo-ka-dhacay-degmooyin-hoostaga-Buuhoodle |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=SomaliMemo |language=en}} Intense gunfire and artillery exchanges occurred during the fighting and both sides are reported to be mobilizing troops to the frontlines, further raising tensions. Daily life in Qoorlugud has been heavily disrupted and residents have been displaced by the fighting.{{Cite web |date=2024-11-01 |title=Fierce Clashes Erupt Between Somaliland and SSC Forces |url=https://halqabsi.com/2024/11/fierce-clashes-erupt-btw-sl-and-ssc/ |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=Halqabsi News |language=en-US}} SSC claims it was attacked by Somaliland forces,{{Cite web |date=1 November 2024 |title=SSC Khaatumo oo Somaliland ku eedaysay in ay nabadgalyo daro ka abuurayso gobolka |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2024/Nov/wararka_maanta1-188294.htm |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=Hiiraan Online}}{{Cite web |date=2 November 2024 |title=SSC-Khaatumo Condemns Somaliland’s Alleged Attack on Nomadic Communities in Buhodle |url=https://mogadishu24.com/ssc-khaatumo-condemns-somalilands-alleged-attack-on-nomadic-communities-in-buhodle/ |access-date=2024-11-02 |website=Mogadishu24 |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2024-11-02 |title=SSC Khaatumo Oo Somaliland Ku Eedaysay Inay Soo Weerartay Saldhigyo Ciidan Oo Ku Yaala Degmada Buuhoodle. |url=https://kaabtv.com/ssc-khaatumo-oo-somaliland-ku-eedaysay-inay-soo-weerartay-saldhigyo-ciidan-oo-ku-yaala-degmada-buuhoodle/ |access-date=2024-11-02 |website=Kaab TV |language=en-US}} while the Somaliland government claims the fighting was orchestrated by the Federal Government of Somalia in order to disrupt the upcoming 2024 presidential election.{{Cite web |title=Somaliland oo dowlada Soomaaliya ku eedaysay dagaal maalintii labaad ka socda Aaga Qorilugud |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2024/Nov/wararka_maanta1-188293.htm |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=Hiiraan Online}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2024-11-02 |title=Somaliland army and SSC-Khatumo forces in intense fighting amid escalating tension |url=https://somalilandreporter.com/2024/11/02/somaliland-army-and-ssc-khatumo-forces-in-intense-fighting-amid-escalating-tension/ |access-date=2024-11-02 |website=Somaliland Reporter |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2 November 2024 |title=Xisbiga Waddani oo Ku Baaqay in Somaliland La Difaaco Kadib Dagaalkii Qorilugud |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2024/Nov/wararka_maanta2-188300.htm |access-date=2024-11-02 |website=Hiiraan Online}} The initiator of the fighting remains unclear, as each side accuses the other, and both have claimed victory.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2024-11-01 |title=Dagaalo khasaare dhaliyey oo ka dhacay waqooyiga Buuhoodle |trans-title=Battles that caused casualties in the north of Buhoodle |url=https://horseedmedia.net/dagaalo-khasaare-dhaliyey-oo-ka-dhacay-waqooyiga-buuhoodle-394351 |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=Horseed Media |language=en}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2024-11-01 |title=Hoggaanka Ciidamada Qaranka Somaliland oo faahfaahin ka bixiyey Dagaalkii aaga Qorilugud |url=https://hargeisapress.com/hoggaanka-ciidamada-qaranka-somaliland-oo-faahfaahin-ka-bixiyey-dagaalkii-aaga-qorilugud/ |access-date=2024-11-02 |website=HargeisaPress |language=en-US}} The confirmed death toll as a result of the renewed fighting is over 25, with many more injured. Both parties have captured POWs.{{Cite web |date=2024-11-02 |title=Escalating Clashes Between Somaliland Forces and Local Armed Groups in Togdheer |url=https://mustaqbalmedia.net/en/escalating-clashes-between-somaliland-forces-and-local-armed-groups-in-togdheer/ |access-date=2024-11-02 |website=Mustaqbal Media - (English) |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=1 November 2024 |title=Millitariga Somaliland oo War Kasoo Saaray Colaada Kasoo Cusboonaatay Aaga Qorilugud |url=https://hiiraan.com/news/2024/Nov/wararka_maanta1-188295.htm |access-date=2024-11-02 |website=Hiiraan Online}}

On 26 November 2024, fighting broke out in the city of Erigavo in Sanaag region between Somaliland security forces and armed groups. SSC issued a statement accusing Somaliland of deliberately harming civilians in the city after gunfire was reported there on noon that day. The interior minister of Somaliland warned against any armed mobilization in the city, announced the imposition of a curfew and ordered arrests.{{Cite web |date=26 November 2024 |title=SSC Khaatumo oo Somaliland ku eedaysay in ay dil iyo dhac u gaysanayso qaybo kamid ah shacabka Ceerigaabo |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2024/Nov/wararka_maanta26-188519.htm? |access-date=2024-11-26 |website=Hiiraan Online}}{{Cite web |date=26 November 2024 |title=Somaliland imposes curfew in Erigavo after deadly clashes |url=https://hiiraan.com/news4/2024/Nov/199080/somaliland_imposes_curfew_in_erigavo_after_deadly_clashes.aspx?utm_source=hiiraan&utm_medium=SomaliNewsUpdateFront |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}}

On December 14, SSC-Khaatumo forces launched a coordinated assault on Somaliland positions within Erigavo.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-15 |title=Clashes between Somaliland and SSC intensify in Erigavo, entering second day |website=Somali Guardian |url=https://somaliguardian.com/news/somalia-news/clashes-between-somaliland-and-ssc-intensify-in-erigavo-entering-second-day/ |access-date=2025-01-28 |language=en-US}} Local reports indicate that the fighting concentrated in the northern and eastern parts of the city, with both sides deploying heavy weaponry. Civilians were caught in the crossfire, and hospitals in the region were overwhelmed with casualties. Somaliland forces mounted a counteroffensive on December 15, expelling SSC-Khatumo fighters out of the city,{{Cite web |title=SSC Khaatumo leader vows to reclaim Erigavo from Somaliland control |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Jan/199797/ssc_khaatumo_leader_vows_to_reclaim_erigavo_from_somaliland_control.aspx |access-date=2025-01-28 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}} with SSC-Khatumo fighters fully withdrawing by the next day.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-21 |title=UN: 43,000 people have been displaced in Erigavo violence {{!}} Somali Observatory for Humanitarian Affairs |url=https://sooha.org/en/2024/12/21/un-43000-people-have-been-displaced-in-erigavo-violence/ |access-date=2025-01-28 |language=en-US}} Governor Muse declared victory, stating: "The army has orders to take strict action against anyone looting houses. Civilians carrying weapons will be arrested immediately."{{Cite web |date=2024-12-15 |title=Somaliland administration claims control of Erigavo after heavy fighting with SSC-Khaatumo |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2024/Dec/199396/somaliland_administration_claims_control_of_erigavo_after_heavy_fighting_with_ssc_khatumo.aspx |website=Hiiraan Online}} According to multiple sources, the clashes resulted in "at least seven deaths and scores of injuries" among combatants and civilians.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-15 |title=Somalia: At least 7 killed, scores wounded in battle for Erigavo control |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-at-least-7-killed-scores-wounded-in-battle-for-erigavo-control |website=Garowe Online}} The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) later reported that nearly 43,000 people were displaced as a result of the fighting.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-17 |title=Somalia: Clashes in Somalia's Erigavo displace nearly 43,000 – U.N. |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/somalia/somalia-clashes-in-somalia-s-erigavo-displace-nearly-43-000-u-n |website=Garowe Online}}

During late December 2024, both Somaliland and SSC began taking efforts to resolve the protracted conflict between the two peacefully.{{Cite web |date=29 December 2024 |title=Somaliland and SSC Khaatumo leaders signal readiness for peace talks |url=https://hiiraan.com/news4/2024/Dec/199578/somaliland_and_ssc_khaatumo_leaders_signal_readiness_for_peace_talks.aspx |access-date=2024-12-31 |website=Hiiraan Online |language=en-US}}

On 11 January, Somaliland forces with the help of local militia captured the Jiidali town east of Erigavo.{{Cite news|title=Somaliland Seizes Jiidali Town After Control of Erigaabo|url=https://en.goobjoog.com/somaliland-seizes-jiidali-town-after-control-of-erigaabo/|access-date=2025-01-11|website=goobjoog}}

On January 30, SSB millitias clashed with SSC-Khatumo fighters in the Shangeed area, claiming to have captured SSC-Khatumo fighters and seized vehicles during the skirmish, showcasing their captives as evidence of their success in the confrontation.{{Cite web |title=SSC Khaatumo forces claim victory over Somaliland in Shangeed clashes |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Feb/200044/ssc_khaatumo_forces_claim_victory_over_somaliland_in_shangeed_clashes.aspx |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}}

On March 7, heavy clashes broke out between SSB civil militias, backed by Somaliland forces and SSC-Khatumo fighters near Buqdharkayn and Yeyle, with initial reports indicating the clashes began between SSC-Khatumo forces and SSB militias before Somaliland's military later intervened.{{Cite web |title=Somaliland and SSC Khaatumo forces clash in Buqdharkayn as territorial dispute escalates |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news4/2025/Mar/200573/somaliland_and_ssc_khaatumo_forces_clash_in_buqdharkayn_as_territorial_dispute_escalates.aspx |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=www.hiiraan.com |language=en-US}} The Somaliland government strongly condemned the clashes, with the spokesperson of Somaliland's Ministry of Interior accusing SSC-Khatumo fighters of attempting to loot livestock from local herders. Somaliland also claimed to have inflicted heavy losses on the militants.{{Cite web |title=Somaliland oo SSC Khaatumo ku eedaysay masuuliyadda dagaalkii maanta ka dhacay Buqdharkayn |url=https://www.hiiraan.com/news/2025/Mar/wararka_maanta7-189551.htm |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=www.hiiraan.com}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-03-07 |title=Somaliland ayaa ka hadashay dagaal maanta ka dhacay deegaanka Buqdharkayn |url=https://www.oodweynemedia.com/2025/03/07/somaliland-ayaa-ka-hadashay-dagaal-maanta-ka-dhacay-deegaanka-buqdharkayn/ |access-date=2025-03-08 |website=Oodweynenews.com Oodweyne News |language=en-GB}} SSC-Khatumo has accused Somaliland forces of starting the fighting at their military bases according to a statement.

Both sides have alleged the presence of external actors. The Somaliland foreign ministry allege they are fighting foreign armed groups on the Las Anod side including the Somali National Army, Puntland Security Force, Liyu Police and Al-Shabaab.{{Cite web |date=9 March 2023 |title=Somaliland Accuses Ethiopia of "Fuelling the Laasaanood Conflict" |url=https://puntlandpost.net/2023/03/09/somaliland-accuses-ethiopia-of-fuelling-the-laascaanood-conflict/ |access-date=7 August 2023 |website=puntlandpost.net}}{{Cite web |date=31 March 2023 |title=The Republic of Somaliland's response to the US State Department Statement |url=https://mfa.govsomaliland.org/article/press-release-hargeisa-somaliland-march-31-2023 |access-date=2023-04-10 |website=Somaliland Ministry of Foreign Affairs}} These allegations have been dismissed by experts and observers as Somaliland President Muse Bihi seeking to blame his failures on outsiders. Both the regional Puntland government and the federal Somali government have effectively stayed out of the dispute.

All groups accused by the Somaliland government have denied claims of involvement:

• On 9 February 2023, Al-Shabaab made a press release rejecting the Somaliland administration's claims of involvement in the Las Anod war and accusing them of apostacy.{{Cite web |author-link=Somalimemo |date=9 February 2023 |title=Al-Shabaab oo beeniyey in dagaalyahannadoodu ay ka dagaallamayaan Laascaanood (Warsaxaafadeed) |url=https://soomaalimemo.com/articles/17678/Al-Shabaab-oo-beeniyey-in-dagaalyahannadoodu-ay-ka-dagaallamayaan-Laascaanood-Warsaxaafadeed |trans-title=Al-Shabaab denied that their fighters are fighting in Las Anod (press release) |website=Somalimemo |language=so}}
• On 6 March 2023, Puntland President Said Abdulllahi Dani denied Puntland involvement in the war and called for self-determination in the Sool region.{{Cite web |date=2023-03-06 |title=Afar arrimood oo ku gadaaman dagaalka Laascaanood |url=https://www.bbc.com/somali/articles/ck5yw6g82lzo |access-date=2023-04-16 |website=BBC News Somali |language=so}} However, in a local election campaign speech in Galkacyo, Deni accused Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Muse Bihi of colluding against SSC-Khatumo and Puntland, that he was ready to defend both admins from all threats on May 5.{{cite web | url=https://www.somalidispatch.com/latest-news/puntland-admits-to-having-troops-in-las-anod/ | title=Puntland admits to having troops in las Anod – Somali Dispatch | date=9 May 2023 }}
• On 11 March 2023, Ethiopia's Somali Region President Mustafa "Cajgar" Omar denied involvement in the war.{{cite web |date=11 March 2023 |title=Ethiopia denies sending troops to Las Anod, Somalia |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/world/africa/ethiopia-denies-sending-troops-to-las-anod-somalia |access-date=16 April 2023 |website=Garowe Online |language=en |archive-date=22 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322213853/https://www.garoweonline.com/en/world/africa/ethiopia-denies-sending-troops-to-las-anod-somalia |url-status=live }}

The Dhulbahante clan accuse the Somaliland side of involving Djiboutian National Police officers and Chinese weaponry smuggled via Djibouti. The Djiboutian government denied these claims.{{Cite web |date=15 February 2023 |title=Somalia: Djibouti denies links to mass murders in Las Anod |url=https://www.garoweonline.com/en/world/africa/somalia-djibouti-denies-links-to-mass-murders-in-las-anod |access-date=16 April 2023 |website=Garowe Online |language=en |archive-date=16 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230416142139/https://www.garoweonline.com/en/world/africa/somalia-djibouti-denies-links-to-mass-murders-in-las-anod |url-status=live }}

It is not known how many people have been killed in all during the conflict.

During the first weeks of fighting, Somaliland forces cut the water supply to Las Anod causing a water shortage that significantly impacted both the civilian population and the SSC fighters present. A sharp increase in the price of water put a heavy burden on medical/humanitarian staff operating in the area and the remaining local residents. Rains that came in March and April 2023 helped alleviate the shortage.

According to the findings of an April 2023 report released by Amnesty International, Somaliland forces "...indiscriminately shelled the town, damaging hospitals, schools and mosques, killing and injuring civilians, and displacing tens of thousands of people." Mortars and 107 mm rockets were utilized in dense urban areas. By April, the city general hospital had been struck four times. Women, children and elderly residents of Las Anod were among the victims of the artillery shelling. Amnesty found that Somaliland violated the prohibition in international humanitarian law of indiscriminate attacks.

{{Portal|Somaliland|Somalia}}

• Battle of Las Anod (2007)
• 2024 Buhodle clashes
• Battle of Erigavo
• Battle of Jiidali
• Battle of Tukaraq
• Puntland–Somaliland dispute

{{reflist}}

• {{Cite journal |last=Hoehne |first=Markus V. |date=June 2023 |title=The Conflict over Lasanod: Long term and Immediate Factors, and Prospects for Settlement |url=https://usercontent.one/wp/www.rapri.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Policy-Report2Lasanod-Published-version.pdf?media=1684880128 |journal=Raad Peace Research Institute |issue=2}}

{{Somaliland topics}}{{Puntland topics}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Las Anod conflict, 2023}}

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