In early March 2025, Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways suspended their flights to and from Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) in Mogadishu, Somalia, following a security alert issued by the U.S. Embassy in Somalia.
This alert, dated March 4, 2025, warned of a “potential imminent attack” targeting multiple locations in Somalia, including Mogadishu’s airport.
U.S. Embassy Security Alert
The U.S. Embassy in Somalia, on March 4, 2025, released a security alert cautioning U.S. citizens about ongoing terrorist threats in the country.
The embassy highlighted that terrorists continue to plan kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia.
Potential methods of attack include car bombs, suicide bombers, individual attackers, and mortar fire.
Targets may encompass airports, seaports, checkpoints, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and other locations where large crowds gather and Westerners frequent.
In response to the credible threat information, the embassy restricted all staff movements in Mogadishu until further notice. The alert underscored the high risk of terrorist activities in the region and advised U.S. citizens to exercise increased caution.
Airlines’ Response
Following the U.S. Embassy’s warning, Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways canceled their scheduled flights to and from Mogadishu. Specifically, flights on March 6, 2025, were canceled, with Turkish Airlines also canceling a flight on March 7, 2025.
While these airlines did not publicly disclose the reasons for the cancellations, it is widely believed that the decisions were made in response to the heightened security concerns highlighted by the U.S. Embassy’s alert.
Despite these cancellations, other carriers, including Ethiopian Airlines and Uganda Airlines, continued their operations at Aden Adde International Airport.
This indicates a varied response among airlines to the security threats in Mogadishu.
United Nations Security Council Actions
In a related development, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2776 on March 3, 2025, extending the sanctions regime against Al-Shabaab.
This resolution authorizes Member States to intercept vessels transporting banned items to and from Somalia, including illegal arms imports and charcoal exports, until December 13, 2025.
Additionally, the mandate of the Panel of Experts assisting the Al-Shabaab sanctions regime was renewed until January 13, 2026.
The Security Council emphasized that Al-Shabaab’s attempts to undermine peace and security in the region, including acts of terrorism, constitute a threat to international peace and security.
The resolution aims to degrade Al-Shabaab’s capabilities, disrupt its finances, strengthen international collaboration, and support Somalia in building its own security capabilities.
Background on Al-Shabaab
Al-Shabaab, an extremist militant group, has been engaged in an insurgency against the Somali government and international forces for over a decade.
The group seeks to establish an Islamic state in Somalia and has been responsible for numerous attacks targeting government institutions, security forces, and civilians.
The United States designated Al-Shabaab as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in 2008, reflecting the group’s ongoing threat to regional stability.
Implications for Travelers and Airlines
The suspension of flights by major carriers like Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways underscores the volatile security situation in Somalia, particularly in Mogadishu.
Travelers planning to visit Somalia are advised to stay updated on security developments and consult official sources for travel advisories.
Airlines operating in the region must continuously assess risks to ensure the safety of their passengers and crew, adapting their operations in response to evolving threats.
Conclusion
The recent flight cancellations by Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways, prompted by the U.S. Embassy’s security alert, highlight the persistent security challenges in Somalia.
The international community, through measures like the UN Security Council’s sanctions, continues to support efforts to stabilize the region and counteract the threats posed by groups like Al-Shabaab.
Travelers and stakeholders are urged to remain vigilant and informed about the security dynamics in Somalia.
Image: Turkish Airlines
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