Clashes between rival forces in Hiiraan leave one soldier dead, another injured

At least one soldier was killed and another injured during a clash between forces from the Hiiraan State administration and Hirshabelle State administration in Beledweyne, Hiiraan region, on Friday morning. 

The fighting erupted at Lamagalay camp, the headquarters of the Hiiraan region, as Hirshabelle forces reportedly attempted to disrupt the first anniversary celebrations of the Hiiraan State administration, scheduled for Saturday, according to Hiiraan officials.

Tensions have been high since Hiiraan Governor Ali Jeyte Osman declared Hiiraan independent from Hirshabelle State following his dismissal by Hirshabelle State President Ali Abdullahi Hussein in June 2023.

Traditional elders and intellectuals intervened to stop the fighting, bringing temporary calm to the area, but residents fear that renewed clashes are possible due to the proximity of the two rival forces.