MOGADISHU (SD) – The United Nations in Somalia (UNTMIS) has expressed deep concern over the political situation in the South West State, calling for an immediate de-escalation of rising tensions.

In a press statement, UNTMIS said it is closely monitoring recent developments, particularly the dispute between the Federal Government of Somalia and the South West regional administration. The UN emphasized that such conflicts cannot be resolved through unilateral pressure or actions but require open and meaningful dialogue.

UNTMIS warned that escalating political tensions could jeopardize Somalia’s overall stability, security, and unity. The statement also noted that such disputes have direct humanitarian implications for a population already in need, with millions requiring assistance.

The UN cautioned against the risk of armed confrontation, which could reverse gains made in peacebuilding and state-building. Somalia remains in a delicate phase, and further conflict must be avoided.

UNTMIS called on all parties to exercise restraint and political responsibility, urging them to return to dialogue to reach a lasting resolution. The statement is part of ongoing international efforts to safeguard Somalia’s stability and support its state-building progress.

The statement from the United Nations mission in Mogadishu highlights growing international concern over escalating tensions in South West State, Somalia, particularly the dispute between the federal government and regional authorities.

By stressing that the crisis cannot be resolved through unilateral actions, the UN is signalling opposition to military escalation and instead pushing for dialogue as the only viable solution. The warning about risks to national stability, unity, and humanitarian conditions underscores how localized political conflicts in Somalia can quickly have nationwide consequences, especially given the country’s fragile recovery from decades of instability.

The UN’s call for restraint reflects fears that armed confrontation could undo recent peacebuilding progress, indicating that the situation in South West State is not just a regional issue but a potentially significant threat to Somalia’s broader state-building efforts.