BELEDWEYNE, Somalia – The strategic city of Beledweyne, the business capital of the Hiiraan region, witnessed significant unrest today as the city’s Mayor led a spirited rally against Israel’s recent diplomatic actions. Addressing a large gathering of residents, the Mayor issued a stern rebuke, declaring that the local administration and the people of Hiiraan “do not accept” any form of Israeli interference in the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
The demonstration in Beledweyne adds a crucial central voice to the growing chorus of national dissent. Crowds filled the city center, chanting slogans of solidarity and waving the national flag. The atmosphere was one of resolve, with the Mayor emphasizing that the defense of Somali soil is not merely a federal obligation, but a responsibility shared by every district and region in the country. He characterized the external recognition of the Somaliland region as a hostile act designed to weaken the Somali state.
In his address, the mayor reaffirmed that the people of Beledweyne stand united with the Federal Government in Mogadishu, asserting that no foreign entity has the right to dictate the borders or the political future of the Somali nation. The protest highlighted the region’s historical role in defending Somali independence, with leaders vowing to resist any attempts at fragmentation. The Mayor concluded by stating that the residents of Hiiraan remain vigilant and are prepared to defend the nation’s dignity against what he termed a violation of international norms.
