Ethiopian-Somalia Conflict
Since as far back as the mid-20th century, Ethiopia and Somalia have had an ongoing conflict which some fear may never get resolved.
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Cause
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The Ogaden region, granted to Ethiopia back in 1948, is the source of the conflict. Somalian attempts at retaking the land have created an ongoing border clash and has been responsible for three full scale wars between these nations.
Ogaden War
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The first war between these nations occurred in 1977 and lasted for a year. The former Soviet Union, an ally of Somalia, broke off its relationship and took support behind the Ethiopian forces, which was vastly outnumbered in terms of military power. However, Somalia did not find itself without help. Egypt had sent over millions of dollars in financial support for the Somalian cause.
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Border War of 1982
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When the Somali National Army (SNA) crossed over the border and attacked an Ehtiopian patrol, war was again declared. This time, it was the United States who became involved when they supplied Somali forces with military equipment.
War in Somalia
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In July of 2006 it was the Ethiopians military who were the aggressor, crossing the border and attacking Somalian patrols claiming that they were only protecting themselves because they were forced to. Once again they were supported by U.S. troops and were able to enter and take control of the city of Mogadishu, Somalia. After three years of war and heavy casualties, Ethiopian troops finally withdrew from the city.
Considerations
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Decades of geopolitical conflict has taken its toll on the citizens of Ethiopia and Somalia. Today, religion has become a more prominent focus. Somalian Islamics and Ethiopian Christians are finding new ways to keep the conflict alive.
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- Photo Credit Carte Afrique Camaieu Marron image by Aimohy from Fotolia.com
