"Somalia Contests Ethiopia's Controversial Bid for Red Sea Port Access"

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has rejected a deal between Ethiopia and the self-declared independent region of Somaliland that would grant Ethiopia access to a stretch of Somaliland's coast. The president views the agreement as a violation of Somalia's sovereignty and international law, fearing it could undermine the progress made against the extremist group al-Shabab. The deal, which also hints at Ethiopia's future recognition of Somaliland's independence, has raised concerns about regional stability and the potential for increased diplomatic tensions.