MOGADISHU — The Federal Republic of Somalia has formally announced its “complete support” for the State of Kuwait, delivering a strong diplomatic statement concerning the possible consequences of Iraq’s recent maritime boundary submission to the United Nations.
Through an official press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on February 25, 2026, the Somali government indicated it is carefully observing Iraq’s unilateral filing of updated maritime coordinates. Somalia voiced formal apprehension that these new boundary demarcations might adversely impact Kuwait’s sovereignty and its long-established maritime territories.
Upholding International Maritime Law
Mogadishu’s direct diplomatic involvement highlights the absolute necessity of following established international legal systems to preserve order and security in the region. In its statement, the Ministry specifically called upon all sides to acknowledge and respect:
- The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which regulates international sea boundaries.
- U.N. Security Council Resolution 833 (1993), the pivotal resolution that established the border between Iraq and Kuwait following the Gulf War.
- Current, legally binding bilateral agreements existing between the two neighboring countries.
Calls for Constructive Dialogue
Referencing Mogadishu’s “extensive historical and brotherly ties” with Kuwait—a relationship recently bolstered by expanded bilateral cooperation—the Somali administration actively advocated for moderation. Officials urged the employment of productive, diplomatic discussions to settle the disagreement without escalating tensions.
The declaration finished by promoting peaceful approaches to handle territorial discrepancies in a way that enhances regional stability and maintains amicable relations. This swift action demonstrates Somalia’s increasingly engaged diplomatic involvement in Middle Eastern affairs, strategically positioning the Federal Government in accordance with the global acknowledgment of established, sovereign borders.
