Türkiye deployed three F-16 fighter jets to Mogadishu, expanding its military presence as it advances offshore oil exploration and strategic investments in Somalia. The aircraft arrived at Aden Adde International Airport following months of facility upgrades. The move aligns with Ankara’s plans to deploy a deepwater drilling vessel off the Somali coast and reinforces Türkiye’s role as Somalia’s leading security and economic partner, supporting the Somali National Army.

The Somali federal government barred planes carrying security personnel from the semi-autonomous regions of Jubaland and Puntland from landing in Mogadishu, citing national security risks. Defense officials said uncoordinated armed arrivals at Aden Adde International Airport threaten diplomatic sites and public safety. The move comes ahead of unity talks invited by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud amid renewed tensions with regional leaders.

Somalia approved a long-awaited Cybersecurity Law, establishing a national framework to protect digital networks and critical infrastructure. The law created the Somalia Computer Incident Response Team to handle cyber threats and monitor vulnerabilities. The Ministry of Communications and the National Communications Authority will oversee implementation. Telecoms, financial institutions, and energy companies must follow security standards and report incidents as Somalia speeds up its digital transformation.

A joint session of Somalia’s Parliament was suspended after scuffles erupted when Speaker Adan Madobe attempted to advance proposed constitutional amendments. Opposition lawmakers said the changes could extend parliament’s mandate beyond its April expiry. Lawmakers tore agenda papers and disrupted proceedings, prompting adjournment. The clash underscores deep divisions over Somalia’s provisional constitution and recalls the 2021 mandate-extension crisis that sparked unrest in Mogadishu.

The United States Africa Command conducted 23 airstrikes in Somalia this year, targeting Al-Shabaab and ISIS, according to AFRICOM. Officials said the strikes are part of a wider US counterterrorism effort across Africa, including Nigeria. The operations are coordinated with partner nations through intelligence sharing and military support. US activity in Somalia has intensified in recent years to weaken militant leadership and networks.

The Somali federal government and the opposition Somali Future Council agreed on security arrangements and a venue ahead of high-level talks starting on 1 February. Technical committees confirmed that the meeting will take place at Halane Camp in Mogadishu, with coordinated protection for Puntland and Jubaland leaders. The talks aim to reduce political tensions, resolve election disputes, and address disagreements over proposed constitutional amendments.