Egypt deploys troops to Somalia Amid regional tensions

Egypt has deployed military personnel and equipment to Somalia as part of a bilateral agreement aimed at addressing regional instability. 

Two Egyptian Air Force C-130 aircraft have landed at Mogadishu International Airport, carrying troops and military assets, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

This deployment, which includes 5,000 Egyptian troops along with tanks and combat aircraft, is intended to enhance security in Mogadishu following the planned withdrawal of the African Union (AU) peacekeeping forces from Somalia. The decision comes in response to escalating tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, underlining the strategic importance of stabilizing the region.

The agreement between Cairo and Mogadishu also involves Egypt sending an additional 5,000 troops to join a new AU military mission scheduled to commence in January 2025. 

The deployment marks a pivotal moment in the regional security landscape, with Egypt stepping in to fill the void left by the AU peacekeepers and contributing to the forthcoming AU-led mission. This intervention is expected to play a crucial role in maintaining stability in Somalia amid ongoing regional challenges.