The Immigration and Citizenship Agency of the Federal Republic of Somalia has acknowledged reports alleging the unauthorized use of Somalia’s airspace and airports to move a fugitive political figure. The Agency, working with relevant national authorities, has immediately opened an inquiry to verify these claims and assess whether Somali laws, procedures, or authorization rules were violated. Confirmation would represent a severe breach of Somalia’s sovereignty and immigration regulations. Facilitating fugitives or conducting unilateral operations on Somali soil without legal clearance is unacceptable. Upholding sovereignty and complying with national and international legal frameworks are fundamental principles. The Federal Government of Somalia has publicly and consistently endorsed Saudi Arabia’s call for dialogue in Riyadh as the proper political channel to address the Yemen situation. Any effort by Aidarous Al-Zoubaidi to bypass this process, including through alleged external assistance, would run counter to ongoing diplomatic initiatives. If the inquiry substantiates these reports, the Federal Government of Somalia states that such conduct would also breach applicable bilateral arrangements and violate relevant principles of international law governing lawful movement of persons. The Federal Republic of Somalia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the rule of law, respect for international norms, and the protection of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Appropriate steps will be implemented based on the inquiry’s findings to ensure full accountability for any confirmed violations.
It is believed that Aidarous al-Zubaidi left Aden on Wednesday night, on board a vessel for the port of Berbera in Somaliland. According to sources in Somalia, Al-Zubaidi then boarded a plane along with UAE officers from Mogadishu to Abu Dhabi.
