Somalia

Somalia: Puntland Seizes Bases in Galkayo, Bosaso

Is Puntland defending regional stability against Mogadishu's overreach or undermining Somalia's fight against extremism?

Published AUG 6

Somalia: Puntland Seizes Bases in Galkayo, Bosaso

story

Above: Soldiers with the Puntland Defense Forces walk near Daabdamale, Somalia, on Jan. 25, 2025. Image credit: Carolyn Van Houten/The Washington Post/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

Puntland's military operations against federal-aligned forces reflect a regional administration undermining Somalia's national security architecture at the worst possible time. Puntland even signed a separate security deal with the U.S., signaling it's prioritizing autonomy over unified governance. Diverting forces from counterterrorism operations against the Islamic State and Al-Shabaab to fight internal political battles puts the entire country at greater risk.

Shabelle Media Network Agenzia Nova Garowe Online

Government-critical narrative

Puntland's seizure of federal-aligned bases in Galkayo and Bosaso is a legitimate defense of regional stability against Mogadishu's destabilization campaign. The federal government has been smuggling weapons and troops into peaceful Puntland while the Somali National Army should be fighting Al-Shabaab. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's power grab, including unconstitutional reforms, has fractured Somalia's federal system and forced regional states to defend themselves.

Critical Threats Somali Guardian FTL Somalia