Egypt Backs Somalia in Dispute Over Ethiopia-Somaliland Deal

President Sissi warns Ethiopia against infringing on Somalia's territory amidst escalating regional tensions.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi has declared support for Somalia amidst its dispute with Ethiopia over a deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland.
Ethiopia has agreed to recognize Somaliland's independence in exchange for a 50-year lease to a 20-kilometer stretch of coastline on the Gulf of Aden, which would give Ethiopia access to the sea and the ability to establish a commercial and naval base.
Somalia has called the agreement an 'act of aggression' and demanded Ethiopia withdraw from the 'illegal' agreement, reaffirming Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Relations between Egypt and Ethiopia have been strained due to the construction and operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which Egypt fears will negatively impact its water security.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has rallied international support against the deal, raising concerns of escalating tensions in the region.