South West State accuses Federal Government of escalation, warns of civil war risk.

Authorities in South West State have issued a strong warning over what they describe as escalating military actions by the Federal Government of Somalia, cautioning that the situation could trigger a wider conflict and humanitarian crisis.

In a statement released by the administration led by Abdiasis Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, regional officials accused the federal leadership under of deploying national forces for political purposes.

The statement alleged that recent operations involving Somali National Army units some trained and supported by international partners, have shifted focus away from counterterrorism efforts against Al-Shabaab toward internal political objectives.

South West authorities further claimed that the use of national resources in the ongoing standoff risks worsening insecurity, displacing civilians, and weakening the country’s federal structure. The statement also raised concerns over reports that “military support originally intended for counterterrorism could be redirected toward internal confrontations” .

The regional administration warned that continued escalation could lead to large-scale displacement, particularly in already vulnerable areas affected by drought and limited humanitarian access.

These developments come amid a broader political crisis between Mogadishu and Baidoa, with both sides pursuing parallel political processes and exchanging accusations over legitimacy and governance. Analysts caution that without immediate de-escalation and meaningful dialogue, the situation could further destabilize the region and impact ongoing security operations.

Mustaqbal