The Somali Ministry of Defence has announced that Egypt will contribute troops to the African Union Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), marking a significant shift in the region’s geopolitical landscape. While the number of troops remains unspecified, this move positions Egypt as a key player in Somalia’s peacekeeping efforts.

This development is likely to have far-reaching implications for regional diplomacy. Egypt’s involvement could challenge Turkey’s influence in Somalia, particularly its role as a mediator in regional conflicts. Furthermore, the decision is expected to strain the already delicate relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia, potentially reversing recent efforts to improve bilateral ties and restoring the tense dynamics of the past. As the situation unfolds, the geopolitical equilibrium in the Horn of Africa appears poised for another significant recalibration.