ANKARA – The Turkish Parliament has approved a two-year extension of Turkey’s military mission in Somalia, allowing Turkish forces to remain until July 27, 2028. The mission will continue supporting operations against terrorism, piracy, illegal fishing, and other security threats.

The resolution gives President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan authority to determine troop numbers and operational areas. It also reaffirms Turkey’s long-standing partnership with Somalia, including military training through the TURKSOM base, maritime security cooperation under the 2024 defence agreement, and ongoing collaboration in energy exploration.

Former Turkish Ambassador Cemalettin Kani Torun claimed Turkey’s influence in Somalia is built on trust rather than military force, emphasizing that Ankara supports dialogue and a Somali-led political process while continuing to assist in rebuilding the country’s security institutions.

Many Somali observers are increasingly questioning Turkey’s portrayal of its role in Somalia. While Ankara presents itself as a neutral partner that does not interfere in domestic politics, critics argue that its expanding military, economic and political footprint gives it significant influence over Somalia’s internal affairs.

Questions have also been raised over the claim that Turkey has remained neutral. In recent years, Turkish military assistance, drones, training programs and defence agreements have become closely tied to Villa Somalia, leading some opposition figures and regional administrations to argue that Ankara’s support has strengthened one political side rather than acting as an impartial partner.

Critics also point to Somalia’s security record despite years of Turkish assistance. Al-Shabaab continues to control or contest large areas of the country, political disputes remain unresolved, and Somalia remains heavily dependent on foreign military support. They argue that this raises legitimate questions about whether the current strategy has achieved its stated objectives.

Others have questioned the transparency of recent defence, maritime and energy agreements with Turkey, calling for greater parliamentary oversight and public scrutiny to ensure they protect Somalia’s sovereignty and national interests.

Supporters of the partnership, however, insist that Turkey remains one of Somalia’s most committed international partners and that its investments in military training, infrastructure and development continue to play an important role in strengthening Somali state institutions.