Arab countries condemn assassination attempt on Somali president

ISTANBUL

Several Arab countries strongly condemned Wednesday a failed assassination attempt on Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, reaffirming their support for Somalia’s security and stability.

The Somali government announced that an explosion Tuesday in Mogadishu was an attempt on Mohamud’s life by al-Shabaab terrorists.

The Information Ministry said Mohamud’s convoy was attacked at approximately 10.32 a.m. (0732GMT) in the Xamar-Jajab district of Mogadishu.

Mohamud was en route to the Mogadishu International Airport to join troops on the frontlines in Hirshabelle state, it said.

The al-Qaeda-affiliated terror group claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it attacked the president’s convoy that was headed to the airport.

United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed had a call with his Somali counterpart on Wednesday “to inquire about his wellbeing following the terrorist attack,” according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM). He offered his “heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the Somali people, wishing a swift recovery for the injured.”

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed “its firm stance against violence and terrorism, regardless of its motives,” extending condolences to victims' families and the Somali government and people.

Jordanian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Sufyan Qudah condemned “all forms of political violence, particularly those targeting public and political figures.”

Egypt’s denounced the attack and rejected all forms of violence and terrorism aimed at destabilizing Somalia.

Saudi Arabia expressed solidarity with Somalia, reaffirming “its firm rejecting of all forms of violence, terrorism, and extremism.”

The Foreign Ministry in Kuwait reiterated its steadfast stance against terrorism and affirmed full support for Somalia’s efforts to safeguard its security and stability.

Bahrain condemned the attack and offered heartfelt condolences to the victims' families and the Somali government.

Yemen’s Foreign Ministry denounced the assassination attempt and extended condolences and solidarity to Somalia.

The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its “strong condemnation” of the attack.

The Arab League called it a “blatant assault,” reaffirming full support for Somalia against terrorism and extremism. It urged the international community to intensify efforts to combat terror financing.​​​​​​​

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha condemned the “heinous act,” expressing solidarity with Somalia and backing Somalia’s efforts to combat terrorism.