"Conflicts in Somalia continue to take a heavy toll on civilians" - UN Security Council Briefing

Briefing by Catriona Laing, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), on the situation in Somalia. “Conflicts in Somalia continue to take a heavy toll on civilians. Last year, we saw the largest increase in civilian casualties since 2017. Sadly, early data indicate a similar trend in 2023, with 1,289 civilian casualties recorded so far. This is partly attributable to Al Shabaab attacks but also the conflict in Laascaanood.” “The President was in Dhusamareb – the capital of Galmudug state – from 5 August until 8 October to direct the military campaign against Al Shabaab. Despite initial success when the Somali National Army and allied clan militias took significant territory, setbacks and operational challenges have been faced since. Government forces are now focused on regrouping, reinforcing, and reorganising, as well as mobilising additional support from clans, before resuming large-scale operations.” “The conflict in Laascaanood escalated on 25 August when the Dhulbahante militia advanced toward the town of Oog. Currently, the situation is calm, and people are returning home. However, the potential for a relapse into violence cannot be ruled out. The United Nations continues to convene partners to coordinate our joint efforts towards a conflict resolution. Following the 25 August events, we issued a joint statement on 27 August condemning the escalation of the conflict and calling for all involved to abide by human rights and international humanitarian law, in particular the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure.”