By Ibrahim Jama, reporter
Hargeisa, Somalia (Somalistandard) – In a strong pushback against the recent proposal by the United States government to withdraw troops from Laasaanod, Somaliland has instead called for continued international support to combat what it refers as terrorism in the restive region.
In a statement issued by the Somaliland government on Friday, it insisted that it’s military is fighting against a group of terrorists who have fled from the war in southern Somalia, suggesting that they have been aided by the American-trained Somali troops of DANAB and PSF, Puntland forces, and other groups with different interests.
Somaliland went on to request that the United States, the African Union, and the international community help to put an end to these groups and use force if necessary to protect the people of the region.
Regarding the delayed elections, Somaliland stated that the election committee is working on it and that the election will be held as planned without giving further details.
The Somaliland government rejected thetU.S calls for the withdrawal of its forces from the conflict areas as unequivocal.
The statement went to push back a U.S backed peace delegation sent by the Federal Government to broker peace, insisting that its troops are fighting terrorists and that there is no room for negotiations. Somaliland emphasized that the essence of their position is “WE WILL NOT PULL BACK.”
The situation in Laasaanod has been a subject of concern for the international community, with reports of violence and instability in the region.
The United States has been working with the Somaliland government to help stabilize the area and ensure free and fair elections.
However, the recent proposal to withdraw troops from the region has been met with opposition by Somaliland, who argue that the security situation will continue fighting and that international support is needed to combat the terrorist groups operating in the region.
The standoff between Somaliland and the United States over the withdrawal of troops from Laasaanod is likely to continue until a resolution is reached that satisfies both parties.
In the meantime, the security situation in the region remains a concern for the international community.
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