In 2006 the Islamists ruled Mogadishu and most of south Somalia, but allied Ethiopian and Somali government forces toppled them. The Islamists have waged an Iraq-style guerrilla campaign since then, gradually gaining back territory.
As when they controlled the capital in 2006, the Islamists are again providing much-needed security in many areas but are unpopular with many moderate Muslims in Somalia for also imposing fundamentalist practices.
The Islamist insurgency has triggered a wave of pirate attacks in the Gulf of Aden, a vital shipping lane for trade between Europe and Asia. Piracy on the Horn of Africa funds the Islamists’ activity in Somalia.
In response to the heightened violence in Somalia Britain has circulated a draft resolution that would impose new U.N. sanctions on anyone contributing to violence and instability in Somalia. Reuters is reporting:
The draft resolution, distributed to the 15 members of the Security Council, calls for asset freezes and travel bans for anyone engaging in or supporting violence in Somalia, including individuals or companies that violate a 1992 U.N. arms embargo against the lawless Horn of Africa country.The resolution also targets anyone who obstructs the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Somalia. Britain hopes the resolution will be approved this week. Britain said the idea behind the resolution is to increase the pressure on those responsible for undermining stability in Somalia.
1 comment:
Very interestiing post. I did know anything about this continued conflict. It is amazing to me that a religious group could be treated as such when they are instead insurgency groups worldwide. While most religious preach good works, faith, and good character, Muslims call for the downfall of Americans and to kill all who disagree with you. What kind of religion is that?
Post a Comment