Somalia to have access to lethal weapons to confront security challenges
NEW YORK, SONNA – In a landmark decision, the United Nations Security Council has lifted the long-standing arms embargo on Somalia, a critical step forward in the country’s efforts to stabilize and strengthen its security forces.
The embargo, imposed in 1992 in response to the country’s devastating civil war, had significantly restricted Somalia’s ability to procure arms and ammunition to combat security threats, notably the militant group al-Shabaab.
After years of international pressure and Somalia’s gradual progress towards stability, the UN Security Council finally decided to lift the embargo. The vote on December 01, saw 14 members in favor and only one abstention.
The lifting of the embargo is expected to provide Somalia’s government with access to lethal weapons, enabling it to better equip its military forces and enhance their capability to confront security challenges, including al-Shabaab’s insurgency.
With the arms embargo lifted, Somalia can now turn its attention to rebuilding its security forces, strengthening its national defense, and paving the way for a more peaceful and secure future.
