Somali Government grounds domestic flights amid Raaskambooni tensions
Airlines had refused to lease planes to the federal government for troop transport, citing security risks.
The Somali Federal Government imposed a domestic flight ban on Friday, stranding hundreds of passengers at Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport.
The abrupt restriction affects most southern regions, except for Puntland-bound flights, and stems from a dispute over the deployment of federal troops to Raaskambooni, a border town contested by the federal government and Jubaland authorities.
More To Read
Airlines had refused to lease planes to the federal government for troop transport, citing security risks.
"Jubaland authorities in Kismayo recently issued warnings, and we have credible information that flights to Raaskambooni could be targeted," a local airline official told Kaab TV anonymously.
In response, the federal government reportedly blocked all domestic flights departing from Mogadishu except those heading to Puntland.
Only two flights to Puntland had departed by Friday, leaving many passengers frustrated, including Amina Nur, who was stranded with her ailing mother.
"We came to Mogadishu for medical treatment, but our flight was cancelled without notice," she said. Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire criticized the flight ban, calling it a violation of citizens' rights.
"The government must allow civilian passengers to travel freely," Khaire stated.
Escalating tensions
The blockade coincides with heightened tensions in Raaskambooni, where Jubaland forces have reportedly stationed anti-aircraft weapons, threatening to target unauthorized flights.
Jubaland media reported clashes between federal and regional forces, with Jubaland troops allegedly advancing toward federal positions.
The Somali Federal Government has deployed Turkish-trained Gorgor and Haramcad army units to the region, reportedly to counter Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe's controversial re-election.
On December 4, military vehicles for Somali forces in Raaskambooni were airlifted from Mogadishu, underscoring the federal government's commitment to asserting control over the area.
remains under siege, with restricted air and road access further escalating the humanitarian and political crisis.
Top Stories Today
