MOGADISHU, Somalia — The United Kingdom has expressed concern over renewed fighting in the Somali city of Baidoa and its potential impact on civilians, calling for an immediate de-escalation of tensions.
The UK Embassy in Mogadishu said the renewed violence poses a threat to civilians and urged all parties involved in the tensions to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further escalate the conflict.
The embassy also called on the parties to resolve their differences through dialogue rather than the use of military force.
The UK’s statement comes amid growing concern over the security situation in Baidoa and the wider South West State, particularly over the potential impact of renewed violence on civilians and the humanitarian situation. The embassy warned that further violence could worsen an already fragile humanitarian situation.
The UK also noted that communities in South West State could face additional humanitarian pressures in the coming weeks linked to the effects of El Niño, potentially increasing existing needs.
The British government reiterated its call for tensions to be reduced and urged the parties to pursue a peaceful resolution through dialogue.
