Somaliland has responded to the recent statement by the US Department of State on the Las Anod clashes.
In its statement, Somaliland clarified that it shares the concerns of the international community on the situation in Las Anod.
Further, Somaliland added that it had already pulled back its forces in an act of good faith while declaring a unilateral ceasefire.
The government also threw its weight behind the peace mission by a team of clan elders from Somaliland.
In the statement, Somaliland added that the parties responsible for launching the conflict had yet to reciprocate.
“Armed groups have made it impossible for the Somaliland government to negotiate any meaningful dialogue with local community leaders,” read part of the statement.
Specifically, the statement mentions attacks by Al-Shabaab, Puntland Security Forces (PSF), and Somali National Army (SNA) as hindering peace negotiations.