The Significance of the Nile River

Stretching over 6,650 kilometres, the Nile is the longest river in the world, flowing through eleven countries, including Ethiopia and Sudan. It sustains around 300 million people across northeastern Africa, making it a crucial lifeline for both nations.

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Ethiopia’s Dependency: Situated upstream of Sudan, Ethiopia has a population exceeding 100 million, with an agrarian economy heavily reliant on water for irrigation and hydropower. Consequently, the Nile represents a vital resource for Ethiopia’s economic growth and stability.

Sudan’s Reliance: Conversely, Sudan depends significantly on the Nile for its agricultural productivity and water security.

Thus, the enduring conflict is not merely about water rights but also territorial control, historical agreements, and regional power dynamics.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)

The construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), initiated in 2011, has become one of the most contentious issues in Ethiopia-Sudan relations. Expected to be Africa’s largest hydroelectric power station, with a capacity of 6,450 megawatts, the GERD promises to alleviate Ethiopia’s chronic electricity shortages and stimulate industrial and economic development.

Concerns of Downstream Nations

However, Sudan and Egypt have raised concerns about the dam’s potential impact on their water supplies.

Sudan’s Fears: Sharing the Blue Nile with Ethiopia, Sudan fears that filling the dam’s reservoir could diminish the flow of water into its irrigation systems.

Negotiation Tactics: As a result, Sudan has sought to leverage its position in negotiations, attempting to balance its alignment with Egypt while advocating for more equitable access to the Nile’s resources.

Border Disputes: A Complicated Geography

The Ethiopia-Sudan border disputes further complicate matters, particularly in regions like Heglig and Al-Fashaga, where territorial sovereignty remains contested.

Al-Fashaga Region: Al-Fashaga, situated on the Sudanese-Ethiopian border, is especially valuable due to its fertile agricultural land, used primarily for growing crops such as sesame and wheat. This has resulted in frequent skirmishes and mutual accusations of encroachment.

Geopolitical Importance of the Nile

Underlying these territorial disputes is the critical issue of water access. The Nile is not merely a resource; it serves as a geopolitical instrument, and control over its tributaries confers significant regional influence.

Sudan’s Vulnerability: While Sudan relies heavily on the Nile for its food security, Ethiopia’s upstream position and control over water flow, particularly through the GERD, have placed Sudan in a precarious situation.

Diplomatic Efforts: In recent diplomatic efforts, Sudan has presented itself as a mediator, seeking a balanced resolution that ensures equitable water distribution while enabling Ethiopia to pursue its development ambitions.

Regional Implications and International Involvement

These disputes have broader regional implications. Egypt’s involvement complicates the issue further, given its historical alliance with Sudan and its long-standing efforts to limit Ethiopia’s dominance over the Nile. However, Egypt’s own concerns regarding the GERD have prompted closer coordination with Sudan in opposing Ethiopia’s dam project.

Despite efforts by international organisations such as the United Nations, the African Union, and the United States to mediate peace talks, the conflict remains unresolved. The risk of ongoing tensions—both over land and water—poses significant threats to regional stability in northeastern Africa.

Balancing Development and Sustainability

The Ethiopia-Sudan conflict over the Nile exemplifies the intricate interplay of environmental, economic, and political factors driving resource disputes across Africa. As Ethiopia continues to assert its right to harness its water resources and Sudan seeks assurances on water flow, the future of the Nile will hinge on sustained dialogue, mutual respect for shared resources, and a delicate balance between development and environmental sustainability.

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The conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine dominate headlines, while other global crises are often overlooked. According to Google News, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Gaza receives an average of 1,500 news articles per month, and the war in Ukraine gets about 1,200 articles monthly. In comparison, crises in less developed regions attract only around 20 articles per month.

READ ALSO: Can Two-state Solution Change the State of a Nation at War?

Several factors explain why the Israeli-Palestinian and Ukrainian conflicts receive far more media attention. This includes proximity to major media hubs, historical significance, media bias, and limited resources all play a role in determining which conflicts dominate the news.

Firstly, proximity to major media centres is a key factor in coverage. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the war in Ukraine are geographically closer to major media hubs, making it easier for journalists to report. This proximity allows for quicker access to information and more efficient reporting. By contrast, conflicts in more remote regions often fail to attract attention due to the logistical difficulties journalists face in accessing these areas.

Another significant factor is historical context. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has a long and complex history, dating back to the early 20th century, which has fostered a sense of global familiarity and emotional investment. The conflict’s involvement in international politics, with various countries taking sides, further elevates its global importance, ensuring continued media focus.

Some critics argue that media bias also influences which conflicts are covered. It is suggested that conflicts aligned with Western interests, such as the Israeli-Palestinian dispute and the war in Ukraine, receive more attention. The former is seen as a conflict between Israel and its Western allies, while the latter is framed as a confrontation between Western-backed Ukraine and Russia, a nation viewed as an adversary by many Western countries.

Finally, the challenges of reporting from less developed regions, often with limited resources and infrastructure, also contribute to the lack of coverage. These areas frequently lack basic necessities such as reliable transportation, communication networks, and access to information, which makes it difficult for journalists to gather and transmit reports. In contrast, both the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the war in Ukraine benefit from better-established infrastructure, facilitating easier and more frequent reporting.

While these factors do not necessarily imply that one conflict is more important than another, they do contribute to the disparity in media coverage. The lack of coverage of other crises can be attributed to geographical proximity, historical context, media bias, and resource limitations. However, every life lost or affected by conflict deserves recognition. By amplifying the voices of those affected by under-reported conflicts, we can raise awareness and work towards more peaceful resolutions.

Media outlets must prioritise under-reported conflicts, promoting a more nuanced understanding of global issues and contributing to a more just and peaceful world.

The post Why Gaza and Ukraine Wars Receive More Media Attention appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the total number of passengers carried on scheduled services rose to 2.3 billion in 2021, a 28.1% increase compared to the previous year. Similarly, the number of departures increased to 24.2 million in 2021, representing a 19.2% growth.

READ ALSO: Africa’s Aerial Powerhouse: Egypt Sets the Standard in Combat Aviation

For African nations, robust air forces equipped with state-of-the-art aircraft and substantial logistical support are not only critical military assets but also essential for ensuring national security, economic stability, and regional influence.

Air Power and National Defence

A well-equipped air force serves as one of the primary lines of defence against external threats, safeguarding a nation’s security and territorial integrity. The availability of diverse aircraft enhances combat readiness, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities, enabling swift responses to potential threats.

Beyond defence, maintaining control over airspace is vital for fostering economic growth. Air power protects critical infrastructure such as oil installations, pipelines, and trade routes, ensuring their security and facilitating uninterrupted operations.

By investing in aviation infrastructure, including maintenance facilities, repair centres, and training academies, African nations can position themselves as regional hubs for aerospace services, contributing to economic development and technological advancement.

African Air Forces: A Snapshot

According to Global Firepower, the African nations with the most extensive air force logistics include:

Egypt

Military Aircraft Fleet: 1,080

Fighter Fleet: 238

Helicopter Fleet: 338

Algeria

Military Aircraft Fleet: 605

Fighter Fleet: 102

Helicopter Fleet: 298

Angola

Military Aircraft Fleet: 297

Fighter Fleet: 57

Helicopter Fleet: 116

Morocco

Military Aircraft Fleet: 255

Fighter Fleet: 83

Helicopter Fleet: 70

South Africa

Military Aircraft Fleet: 194

Fighter Fleet: 2

Helicopter Fleet: 91

Sudan

Military Aircraft Fleet: 170

Fighter Fleet: 45

Helicopter Fleet: 64

Kenya

Military Aircraft Fleet: 158

Fighter Fleet: 17

Helicopter Fleet: 87

Tunisia

Military Aircraft Fleet: 155

Fighter Fleet: 10

Helicopter Fleet: 101

Nigeria

Military Aircraft Fleet: 147

Fighter Fleet: 14

Helicopter Fleet: 53

Libya

Military Aircraft Fleet: 132

Fighter Fleet: 17

Helicopter Fleet: 32

Transforming the Aviation Sector

Africa’s aviation sector is rapidly evolving, creating a more dynamic and advanced air travel and defence landscape. Strategic investments in infrastructure, training programmes, and technological innovation are enabling African nations to leverage air power for economic growth, improved connectivity, and enhanced global influence.

A Promising Future

The future of African aviation shines brightly. With its rising aerial capabilities, the continent is poised to reshape the geopolitical landscape, asserting itself as a key player on the global stage. This new era of African air power symbolises not just a commitment to security but also a vision for prosperity and progress.

The post The Future of African Aviation: Expanding Aerial Capabilities and Influence appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

A Nation in Crisis
The DRC’s statistics on violence against women paint a disturbing picture. A 2019 United Nations report found that over 1.5 million women in the country have endured sexual violence, making it one of the most dangerous places in the world for women. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) reports that 50% of women in eastern DRC experience sexual violence in their lifetimes. In conflict-affected regions, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that up to 90% of women have faced some form of violence.
These grim figures reveal a society in deep crisis, where women and girls endure not only physical harm but lasting psychological trauma. The stigma surrounding such violence often silences survivors, trapping them in a cycle of fear and isolation.

Courage Amid Adversity
Beyond statistics, stories like Marie’s illustrate the courage of countless women. Following her assault, Marie turned to local NGOs, where she received medical care and counseling. “I didn’t know where to go, but these organizations helped me reclaim my life,” she says with a hopeful glint in her eye. Organizations like UN Women and Doctors Without Borders are essential in providing critical services to survivors.
“We are here to listen and to heal,” affirms Dr. Aisha Mwanga, a physician with Médecins Sans Frontières. “Every woman deserves the chance to rebuild her life.” Stories of resilience remind us that recovery is challenging but achievable with dedicated support.

Breaking the Cycle of Silence
The DRC faces both cultural and systemic obstacles that perpetuate violence against women. Societal norms often discourage women from reporting abuse due to fears of backlash or ostracism. “When a woman speaks out, she risks being shunned,” explains Benedicte Munganga, a committed gender rights advocate. “We must change this narrative and empower women to stand up for themselves.”
Though the 2006 Family Code criminalizes domestic violence, enforcement remains weak, with only 10% of survivors reporting abuse, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). This low reporting rate reflects a widespread lack of confidence in law enforcement and the justice system.

Empowering Change
To effectively combat violence against women, it is crucial to adopt innovative, empowering solutions that engage communities. Education plays a vital role in breaking the cycle of violence, with organizations like Plan International working to promote gender equality and respect among young people. “When we teach children about equality, we are planting seeds for a future free from violence,” asserts Fatou Ndiaye, a local educator.
Community-led initiatives, such as “Safe Spaces,” also provide essential support networks where women can share experiences, receive counseling, and learn self-defense. “In our safe space, we are not just survivors; we are warriors,” says Chantal Kukas, a participant in one of these empowering programs. These initiatives foster resilience and solidarity among women, creating a foundation for lasting change.

A Collective Responsibility
The global community plays a critical role in supporting efforts to end violence against women in the DRC. Humanitarian organizations on the ground need sustainable funding to increase their reach and impact. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized, “Ending violence against women is fundamental to building a just society and achieving peace.”
The DRC government must also commit to strengthening the enforcement of protective laws, increasing funding for support programs, and ensuring that survivors receive adequate care. By fostering a safer environment for women, the nation takes an essential step toward a brighter future.

Empower, Inspire, Transform
Addressing the plight of women and girls in the DRC requires a multi-faceted approach. Empowering women, challenging entrenched norms, improving legal enforcement, and securing international support are all vital to creating a comprehensive strategy for change.

1. Speak Out Against Violence
Individuals and organizations must advocate for stronger protections for women. Participate in rallies, write to representatives, and share stories that highlight the issue—every voice counts.

2. Invest in Change
Support NGOs working with survivors, such as UN Women and Doctors Without Borders. Donations, volunteering, and raising awareness about their work can significantly impact these organizations’ efforts.

3. Start the Conversation
Engage in community discussions about gender equality and violence prevention. Schools and local groups can serve as platforms for educating about respect, consent, and empowerment.

4. Engage with Lawmakers
Advocate for policy changes that strengthen protections for women. Attend town halls and push for legislation that holds perpetrators accountable.

5. Empower the Next Generation
Encourage young people to champion gender equality. Youth-led initiatives can drive cultural change and build a society rooted in respect and support.
The movement to end violence against women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo demands more than our attention; it requires unwavering action. Each story of resilience, like Marie Ntoki’s, serves as a rallying cry to challenge entrenched systems and dismantle the structures that allow violence to persist.

The future is shaped by our choices today. Let us stand in solidarity with the women of the DRC, amplifying their voices and championing their rights. Now is the time to transform outrage into action—demanding robust legal protections, investing in community support, and fostering a culture of respect and equality.
Together, we can create a world where women and girls live free from fear, empowered to pursue their dreams. The path forward is clear: join this movement for a future defined by hope, dignity, and strength for every woman and girl.

The post Combatting Violence Against Women in the DRC appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

While efforts to combat hunger and provide relief to affected populations have made some progress, the broader impacts of the war continue to hinder the nation’s recovery. Posing a daunting challenge to those working to rebuild and restore stability in Sudan. The World Food Programme (WFP) has provided food and cash assistance to 6.8 million people, including refugees, internally displaced persons, host communities, and other residents.

The economic impact of the conflict has been devastating, with estimates suggesting over $15 billion in losses. This disruption affected key sectors, and industries with dire consequences, including widespread unemployment and loss of jobs. As a result, the unemployment rate has surged to approximately 28%. Infrastructure damage, including the destruction of roads, bridges, and public buildings, further hinders economic activities and access to necessities.

The war also affected the country’s healthcare system, with many hospitals and medical facilities left closed, damaged, or burnt. According to the United Nations, over 14,000 people have been killed and 33,000 wounded since then. However, human rights activists believe that the true toll could be much higher. The World Health Organization reports that 15 million people in Sudan lack access to healthcare, and between 70-80% of health facilities are not functioning.

In the city of Omdurman, hospital buildings lie deserted. Doctors warn that the few remaining operating facilities are at risk of closure due to limited resources and overcrowding, making it difficult for medical professionals to provide adequate care. At a dialysis center in Kassala state, Doctor Ammar Moatasem revealed that they are unable to follow proper treatment protocols due to the challenging conditions.

One patient, Awad Mohamed, expressed frustration at the lack of hope for a better future. The conflict, which began in April last year when tensions between the military and the Rapid Support Forces erupted into open fighting in Khartoum and elsewhere, has resulted in devastating consequences.

Efforts and Investments

The African Union has been a key player in efforts to bring peace and stability to Sudan, investing approximately $350 million in peacekeeping and conflict resolution initiatives since the conflict began.

The global response to Sudan’s humanitarian needs has been strong. Australia’s government donated $6 million in emergency funds, complementing contributions from the United States, which exceeded $600 million, and the European Union, allocating around $470 million. The United Nations, through its agencies, has mobilized over $700 million, primarily for food aid, refugee support, and other necessities. Additional aids from the UK, Germany, Canada, Norway, Japan, and GCC nations amount to more than $1.3 billion in combined support.

READ ALSO: 10 African Countries With the Youngest Population

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as Save the Children, Doctors Without Borders, and Oxfam have also provided hundreds of millions of dollars in aid, concentrating on healthcare, education, and emergency relief. These collective efforts demonstrate the global commitment to supporting Sudan during this critical time.

The fight against hunger, displacement, and unemployment in Sudan is far from over, and continued support from the African Union and the global community is important. Enhanced coordination among humanitarian agencies, increased funding, and sustained diplomatic efforts to end the conflict are critical to ensuring long-term food security and stability in the region.

The post War in Sudan: Displacement, Economic Losses, and Efforts appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Sudan’s terrain is deeply scarred by decades of civil war, both physically and psychologically.  Numerous lives were lost in the North and South’s fighting, which also severely damaged agricultural output.  The displacement of millions from their ancestral lands disrupted the customary food production methods.  “Everything was taken from us by the war,” laments Darfuri farmer Aisha. “Our crops failed, our livestock perished, and hunger became a constant threat.”  The quotation was taken from first-hand reports that humanitarian organizations had collected.

With the recent secession of South Sudan, another layer of complexity was added.  Previously shared oil revenues, a crucial source of income, were divided, and trade routes were disrupted. This economic instability further strained Sudan’s ability to ensure food security for its citizens.

Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution

Taking care of hunger in war-torn Sudan demands a dedication to national and local conflict resolution and peacebuilding. A stable peace is necessary to foster an atmosphere that supports food security since conflict and poverty impede trade, market access, and agricultural output.

Moreover, investing in conflict resolution mechanisms, community reconciliation initiatives, and social cohesion programs can help rebuild trust and solidarity within communities, laying the foundation for long-term stability and development.

Investing in Agriculture

Supporting rural development and agriculture is one of the main tenets of a long-term strategy to end hunger in Sudan. Sudan can boost food production, raise incomes, and lessen its dependency on food aid by enhancing the resilience of smallholder farmers, expanding their access to markets and agricultural inputs, and encouraging sustainable farming methods.

Moreover, investing in irrigation infrastructure, water management, and climate-smart agriculture can help mitigate the impact of climate change on food security and build the resilience of communities to environmental shocks and disasters.

Empowering Women

Although women are essential to Sudan’s food production, processing, and distribution chains, they frequently encounter structural obstacles when trying to get access to land, loans, and agricultural inputs. Targeted interventions, such as financial services, agricultural training, and land rights access, can empower women farmers and enable them to become change agents and contributors to the food security of their communities.

Furthermore, promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment can have ripple effects beyond the agricultural sector, contributing to broader social and economic development goals and fostering more inclusive and resilient societies.

Building Resilience

To lessen the effects of food insecurity and make sure that communities are able to endure shocks and strains and bounce back, resilience building is crucial. During difficult times, vulnerable populations might benefit from investments in social protection programs like cash transfers, food vouchers, and nutrition services, which act as a safety net and save them from sinking even farther into poverty and hunger.

Furthermore, promoting diversified livelihoods, investing in education and skills training, and strengthening social networks and community institutions can enhance the resilience of households and communities, enabling them to cope with adversity and thrive in the face of uncertainty.

Addressing hunger in war-torn Sudan is not just a humanitarian imperative; it is a moral obligation and a strategic necessity for the country’s long-term stability and prosperity. By tackling the root causes of food insecurity, investing in agriculture and rural development, empowering women, promoting peacebuilding and conflict resolution, and building resilience, Sudan can break the cycle of hunger and build a future where every citizen has access to nutritious food, economic opportunity, and a life of dignity and hope.

As the international community rallies behind Sudan in its quest for peace and development, let us not forget the millions of Sudanese whose lives hang in the balance, their hopes and dreams for a better future overshadowed by the specter of hunger.

It is time for action, solidarity, and collective resolve to ensure that no one in Sudan goes to bed hungry and that every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential.

The post Addressing Hunger in War-Torn Sudan appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Togo, previously peaceful, recently experienced attacks, signaling a concerning shift. These attacks, likely linked to extremist recruitment efforts, exploit Togo’s socio-economic vulnerabilities. High poverty, illiteracy, and frustration with authoritarian rule provide fertile ground for extremism. Similar to other affected countries like Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine, Togo lacks adequate resources and faces operational challenges in combating terrorism. 

The Togolese government has recognized the importance of proactive measures to thwart any potential threats to national security. One aspect of Togo’s approach is its collaboration with regional and international allies, acknowledging that terrorism knows no boundaries. 

Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé recently joined African leaders in Abuja to discuss combating terrorism. He pointed out the need for international funding and military collaboration to tackle the threat. Gnassingbé called for a new military cooperation organization and highlighted Togo’s holistic approach, including social initiatives like PURS and COSO, to promote security and resilience.

Togo’s plans to combat terrorism are exemplified through various initiatives, including strengthening law enforcement agencies, enhancing intelligence capabilities, and implementing stringent border controls. These measures aim to disrupt terrorist networks, prevent the infiltration of extremist elements, and mitigate the risk of attacks.

The country has prioritized counterterrorism strategies that address the root causes of radicalization and extremism. Recognizing the socio-economic factors that contribute to vulnerability to extremist ideologies, the government has invested in education, youth empowerment, and community engagement programs. By addressing underlying grievances and providing alternative pathways, Togo seeks to undermine the appeal of terrorist narratives.

However, despite these efforts, the porous nature of borders in the West African region poses a significant obstacle to effective counterterrorism operations. Transnational terrorist groups, such as Boko Haram and Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), operate across porous borders, complicating efforts to contain their activities.

Resource constraints and capacity limitations hinder the implementing of anti-terrorism measures in Togo. Adequate funding, training, and equipment are essential for law enforcement and security agencies to effectively combat terrorism. With sufficient resources, the effectiveness of counterterrorism efforts may be protected.

Another critical aspect is the need for sustained vigilance and adaptability in response to evolving threats. While Togo has made commendable efforts in combating terrorism, there is room for improvement. Terrorist tactics and strategies are constantly evolving, necessitating a dynamic and proactive approach from security forces. Regular assessments and adjustments to counterterrorism policies and procedures are essential to stay ahead of the curve.

The post How Effective are the Anti-Terrorism Efforts in Togo? appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Israel found itself under attack from a barrage of drones and missiles launched by Iran overnight. This onslaught heralded a new phase of uncertainty and confrontation in the region, adding fuel to the longstanding discord between the two nations.

The roots of this latest conflict can be traced back to a suspected Israeli strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, earlier in the month. This strike, seen as a provocation by Iran, prompted the unprecedented aerial assault aimed at Israeli territory.

The attack, comprising over 300 projectiles including drones and ballistic missiles, was a bold display of Iran’s military capabilities and its willingness to retaliate against perceived aggression. However, Israel’s formidable aerial defense systems, supported by its allies, managed to intercept the vast majority of the incoming threats, minimizing damage to Israeli territory.

The primary target of Iran’s attack was identified as the Nevatim airbase, which Iran alleges was the launch site of the earlier strike on its consulate. Despite some Iranian ballistic missiles reaching Israeli soil, the damage inflicted was limited, with the airbase sustaining only minor structural damage and continuing its operations uninterrupted.

This latest escalation comes amidst simmering tensions between Israel and Iran, which have been exacerbated by Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas since October of the previous year. Iranian-backed forces in Iraq and Syria have also targeted US military positions, further contributing to the volatility in the region.

The airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, which resulted in casualties including high-ranking Iranian officials, catalyzed the recent hostilities. Iran’s leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Ebrahim Raisi, vowed retaliation, setting the stage for the subsequent attack on Israel.

Reactions from the UN and World Leaders

In response to the Iranian assault, Israel condemned the strikes while praising its military’s ability to defend against them. However, there are growing calls from Israel’s Western allies for restraint and de-escalation, fearing that further military engagement could spiral into full-scale warfare with devastating consequences for the region.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed Israel’s readiness for potential direct attacks from Iran, highlighting extensive defensive preparations. He expressed appreciation for the support from the U.S. and allies, affirming Israel’s determination to defend itself against any threats.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres cautioned against exacerbating tensions with Iran, while the U.S. issued a stern warning at the Security Council regarding Tehran’s accountability in a session with the U.N. Security Council.

Guterres reminded member states of the charter’s prohibition on the use of force against any state’s territorial integrity or political independence, simultaneously condemning Iran’s assault on Israel.

Iran’s Mission to the United Nations attributed its military action to what it perceived as aggression by the Zionist regime against its diplomatic premises in Damascus. While suggesting the matter’s resolution, Iran cautioned of a stronger response if Israel provokes further.

U.S. President Joe Biden reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security in the face of threats from Iran and its proxies.

The United Kingdom strongly denounces Iran’s reckless assault on Israel, which endangered the lives of countless civilians. The UK has consistently condemned Iran’s destabilizing activities in the region and its support for various militant groups. The nation remains unwavering in its support for Israel’s security and that of its regional allies, such as Jordan and Iraq, and welcomes collaborative efforts with partners to counter the Iranian threat.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned Iran’s reckless attack against Israel, stressing the risk of inflaming tensions and destabilizing the region. He reaffirmed the UK’s support for Israel’s security and efforts to stabilize the situation.

China’s foreign ministry expressed “deep concern” over escalating Middle East tensions, urging the immediate implementation of a U.N. ceasefire resolution. Citing the need for calm and restraint to prevent further escalation, attributing the situation to the spillover of the Gaza conflict. China, acting as a mediator, facilitated the restoration of diplomatic ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia. However, Chinese companies’ involvement in Iran’s military drone program has drawn scrutiny, despite online criticism of Israel garnering significant attention on Chinese social media platforms.

Russia voiced profound concern over the Iranian strikes on Israel and urged all parties to show restraint. While Russia condemned Israel’s strike on the embassy compound, it refrained from denouncing the Iranian strikes on Israel, citing the right to self-defense. Despite close ties with Iran, Russia emphasized the need to address unresolved crises in the Middle East, cautioning against provocative actions that escalate tensions.

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President Putin’s foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, discussed the situation with his Iranian counterpart, warning against further escalation. However, Israel expressed dissatisfaction with Russia’s response, expecting condemnation of the Iranian attacks.

The decisions made by Israel’s War Cabinet in the coming days will be crucial in determining the course of action moving forward. While some government officials advocate for a strong response to Iran’s aggression, others emphasize the need for careful consideration and strategic planning to avoid further escalation.

As tensions continue to simmer, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the conflict before it spirals out of control. The stakes are high, and the consequences of missteps could be catastrophic for all involved.

The post Iran’s Attack on Israel: Reactions from the UN appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Almost 500 al-Shabab fighters first crossed into eastern Ethiopia last week, clashing with Ethiopian forces along the border. U.S. assessments suggest they may have penetrated as much as 150 kilometres into Ethiopia before being stopped.

“It appears that the Ethiopians have largely contained and defeated this incursion,” General Stephen Townsend, the outgoing commander of U.S. Africa Command, said Thursday during a call with the Washington-based Defense Writers Group.

Ethiopian officials Thursday likewise confirmed the al-Shabab attack had been repulsed.
“Our brave soldiers foiled a plan al-Shabab was working on for at least a year and defeated the fighters they sent to Ethiopia within three days,” Mustafe Omer, the president of Ethiopia’s Somali region, told reporters.

Omar also said that Ethiopia is planning to create a “security buffer zone” aimed at countering al-Shabab attacks.

“We cannot merely watch an open border where the militants mobilize themselves on the other side [Somalia] to attack us,” he said. “We must prevent such a threat and not wait until they come to our border.”

AFRICOM’s Townsend agreed that al-Shabab will try again.

“This is not a fluke. … I don’t believe this is a one-off,” he added in response to a question from VOA.

“It’s only been less than a year ago that al-Shabab emir [Ahmed] Diriye called for an increased emphasis on external attacks and increased emphasis on attacking Western targets in the Horn of Africa,” Townsend said. “This is a response.”

According to intelligence shared by U.N. member states, al-Shabab currently commands between 7,000 and 12,000 fighters and is spending approximately $24 million a year – a quarter of its budget – on weapons, explosives and increasingly drones.

Townsend further warned Thursday that al-Shabab has been emboldened by recent political turmoil in Somalia, which consumed the attention of Somali officials and politicians for much of the last 18 months, as well as by the December 2020 decision by then-U.S. President Donald Trump to end a U.S. troop presence in Somalia.

That decision has since been reversed, and the AFRICOM commander said Somalia’s new president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has also taken positive steps.

“Al-Shabab got bigger, bolder, stronger,” Townsend said. “So now we’ve got to blunt the initiative that they’ve [al-Shabab] enjoyed for 15 months or more.

“We’ve already seen an uptick in Somali security forces operations,” he added.

U.S. officials and some analysts worry that in addition to Ethiopia, which al-Shabab had previously attacked in 2013 and 2014, al-Shabab also plans to expand operations in Kenya, Djibouti and beyond.

“The militants have been enjoying in their movements and military mobilizations because of the absence of Somali National Army offensives against their hideouts and the areas they still control,” said Abdisalam Yusuf Guled, the former deputy head of the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency.

“So they [al-Shabab militants] have got the choice to attack wherever they want and whenever they want,” he said. “To me, it [Ethiopia] was a rare attack but always predictable.”

There are also growing concerns that al-Shabab is growing more powerful and more influential within al-Qaida itself.

Intelligence from the U.S. and from U.N. member states indicates al-Shabab leader Ahmed Diriye, also known as Ahmed Umar Abu Ubaidah, is part of al-Qaida’s Hittin Committee, which directs the group’s global operations.

The intelligence further suggests that al-Shabab, rather than taking money from al-Qaida’s core leadership, is directly funding it with some of its revenue.

(VOA)

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Addressing parliament Thursday, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed condemned two recent massacres targeting members of the Amhara ethnic group as “inhumane acts of violence” carried out by “evil forces.”

The most recent massacre took place Monday in the West Wellega zone of Ethiopia’s Oromia region, resulting in an unknown number of deaths.

Those killings followed a separate incident last month in which armed men killed 338 Amhara villagers, according to official government figures.

Ethiopia’s government blames the Oromo Liberation Army — or the OLA — for the killings.

The insurgent group claims to be fighting for greater autonomy for the Oromo, Ethiopia’s largest ethnic group, but it has been accused of a spate of bloody human rights abuses.

Speaking to lawmakers on Thursday, Abiy pledged to eliminate the OLA. He also made a rare admission of losses on the government side, saying that police officers and soldiers have been dying on a “daily” basis battling the insurgent group. He added that woreda, or district officials, also have been assassinated.

Abiy’s address came a day after Ethiopia’s parliament held a moment of silence for victims of the massacres and set up a committee to investigate.

Phone service to the area is down, making it difficult to verify the number of people killed in Monday’s violence, which has fueled rising discontent among ethnic Amhara.

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