Puntland has sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council outlining its concerns over Somalia's ongoing political dispute and security situation. The letter, dated September 13, 2026, calls for urgent political dialogue, a review of the arms embargo, and stronger direct engagement between the international community and Federal Member States. This move comes ahead of the Council's expected discussion on Somalia in October. The letter was addressed to UN Secretary-General António Guterres and the president of the Security Council.
Puntland accused the Federal Government of undermining the federal system since 2023 and supporting armed groups and parallel authorities within areas it considers part of its territory. The letter specifically cited fighting in Galkayo in August, alleging that weapons were brought into South Galkayo for onward transfer to North Galkayo. Puntland's forces subsequently arrested 101 people and seized weapons, vehicles, and other equipment. This incident highlights the escalating tensions between Puntland and the Federal Government.
Puntland has been fighting ISIS in the Cal-Miskaad mountains for the past two years without military, financial, or logistical support from the Federal Government. The region has been a hotspot for terrorist activities, and Puntland's efforts to combat ISIS have been hindered by the lack of support. Puntland also warned of a resurgence in piracy and called for direct international cooperation to strengthen maritime security operations. This warning comes as Somalia's coastline has seen a decline in piracy incidents in recent years.
The letter also referred to Turkish forces carrying out strikes along the Jiifle and Garmaal coastlines on August 18 and 20, resulting in the deaths of 14 Somalis and the destruction of fishing boats. Puntland had previously asked Türkiye to avoid harming fishermen and their property. Additionally, the letter mentioned a September 3 drone strike in Doolow, warning against the use of military capabilities provided by international partners for counterterrorism operations in domestic Somali political disputes.
Puntland presented six main requests to the Security Council, including support for urgent Somali political dialogue, direct engagement and support for Federal Member States, and restoration of the Panel of Experts' mandate. The region also called for a review and tightening of arms restrictions, an extension of the UNTMIS mandate, and Security Council consideration of issues related to Somalia's governance and management of resources. These requests aim to address the ongoing crisis and promote stability in Somalia.
Puntland warned that the continuing political dispute could lead to the establishment of a "parallel government" in Mogadishu if no agreement is reached over the country's political and electoral process. The region remains committed to a "stable, peaceful, democratic and federal Somalia." Copies of the letter were sent to Security Council members, the British government, senior United Nations officials, the African Union, and IGAD. This move demonstrates Puntland's efforts to engage with the international community and address the crisis.
The letter concludes Puntland's efforts to bring attention to the crisis in Somalia and promote a peaceful resolution. The region's concerns and requests will be considered by the UN Security Council in October. The international community's response to Puntland's demands will be crucial in determining the course of Somalia's future.
Key points
- Puntland submits letter to UN Security Council with six main requests to address Somalia's crisis
- Region accuses Federal Government of undermining federal system and supporting armed groups
- Puntland warns of resurgence in piracy and calls for direct international cooperation on maritime security
