A new territorial dispute has erupted between Puntland State and the recently recognized Khatumo State. Following the Somali federal government’s acknowledgment of Khatumo as an official member of the federal system last month.
The escalating tensions between Puntland and Khatumo State center around contested border regions, particularly near the Sool region.
Is This An Attempt to Seize Puntland Territory?
According to local sources, Khatumo State forces entered the Sha’hda area, near the town of Taleh, located on the border of Sool.
In response, Puntland deployed its own forces to the area the next day, raising fears of potential armed clashes.
Puntland officials have strongly condemned the move. Puntland’s Minister of Information, Mohamud Aidid Dirir, accused Khatumo leadership of attempting to seize Puntland territory.
He described the maneuver as “provocative and unacceptable.”
Puntland maintains that the contested lands fall within its traditional jurisdiction.
Why Aren’t Puntland and Khatumo State Allies?
This development marks a significant shift in relations between Puntland and Khatumo State.
Khatumo and Puntland had previously been allies, particularly during Khatumo’s 2023 conflict with Somaliland.
However, the alliance began to fracture after Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre visit to Las Anod—Khatumo’s capital—in April.
Followed by the federal government’s formal recognition of Khatumo State.
The federal recognition has emboldened Khatumo’s territorial ambitions.
Leading to growing frictions with Puntland.
Observers warn that the situation may escalate into a broader conflict if dialogue and mediation are not urgently pursued.
