Rideshare Drivers Plan Protest After Charges Dropped Against Somali Driver in Rape, Kidnapping Case

Rideshare drivers in Tukwila are preparing to protest after charges of rape and kidnapping against a Somali Uber driver, Ahmed Hassan Ali, 58, were dropped by prosecutors. The charges were dismissed after dashcam footage failed to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.

Ali, who had been accused of assaulting an intoxicated passenger, was initially arrested when the woman’s family found her unclothed in his car. The case has sparked tension, with drivers calling for Ali’s reinstatement, while prosecutors cite insufficient evidence to proceed.

The incident, which took place in Thurston County, initially involved disturbing claims backed by GPS data, but the lack of conclusive evidence led to the dismissal.

The case has raised concerns about the judicial process and the challenges of balancing legal certainty with public safety.

In his inaugural address as NATO Secretary-General, Mark Rutte pledged to bolster Western support for Ukraine, reaffirming the alliance’s commitment to Ukrainian sovereignty. Rutte, who assumed office on Tuesday, vowed to navigate NATO through an era marked by war in Europe and geopolitical tensions while expressing confidence in his ability to work with any future U.S. administration, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming American presidential election.

“There can be no lasting security in Europe without a strong, independent Ukraine,” Rutte said in his first remarks from NATO headquarters. He reiterated a 2008 commitment made by NATO leadership that Ukraine’s rightful place is within the alliance, a goal that remains aspirational amid Russia’s ongoing war of aggression.

Rutte’s comments come as Russian forces press their offensive in eastern Ukraine, testing the limits of Ukraine’s military resources. While Ukrainian troops have made gains, including limited success in Russia’s Kursk region, they remain outnumbered and face mounting casualties. Despite the grim reality on the ground, Rutte emphasized that supporting Ukraine is a necessary investment in European stability. “The cost of supporting Ukraine is far, far lower than the cost we would face if we allow Putin to get his way,” he said.

Though NATO’s support for Ukraine remains strong, full membership for the war-torn country appears remote. Major member states, including the United States and Germany, are hesitant to bring Ukraine into the fold while active conflict persists. Rutte declined to offer a timeline for Ukraine’s potential accession, acknowledging the complexities of the situation.

However, he pointedly criticized China for its ongoing support of Russia, stating that Beijing’s alignment with Moscow has enabled the prolongation of Europe’s largest conflict since World War II. “China has become a decisive enabler of Russia’s war in Ukraine,” Rutte remarked. “This cannot continue without consequences for China’s interests and reputation.”

U.S. Election Looms Over NATO’s Future

New NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, center right, applauds his outgoing predecessor Jens Stoltenberg during a handover ceremony at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, Oct. 1, 2024.

With just weeks until the U.S. presidential election, Rutte underscored the importance of the trans-Atlantic bond between the United States, Canada, and Europe. A change in U.S. leadership could dramatically reshape NATO’s dynamics. Surveys indicate a tight race, which could see the return of Donald Trump, whose previous administration frequently criticized NATO allies over defense spending and called into question America’s commitment to the alliance.

NATO faced existential questions during Trump’s tenure as smaller member nations feared the U.S. might withdraw from the mutual defense pledge that underpins the organization’s mission. Still, Rutte expressed confidence that he could work with either U.S. candidate. “I know both candidates very well,” he said. While praising Trump for pushing NATO allies to increase defense spending and taking a tough stance on China, Rutte also lauded Vice President Kamala Harris as a “highly respected leader” with a “fantastic record.”

When asked about Trump’s potential impact on NATO’s future, Rutte sidestepped speculation, saying only that both candidates “understand that, in the end, the trans-Atlantic relationship is crucial, not just for Europe.”

During his first day in office, Rutte joined his predecessor, Jens Stoltenberg, in a symbolic ceremony at NATO headquarters in Brussels. The two leaders laid a wreath honoring fallen military personnel before the flags of NATO’s 32 member states. Stoltenberg, visibly moved, praised Rutte’s leadership credentials, noting his experience as prime minister of the Netherlands for 14 years and his ability to navigate coalition governments. “Mark has the perfect background to become a great secretary-general,” Stoltenberg said.

Rutte outlined several key priorities for his term, including increasing defense spending among member states and expanding NATO’s partnerships with countries in Asia and the Middle East. He also underscored the need for NATO to adapt to an increasingly complex global security environment, where threats range from cyberattacks to rising authoritarianism.

As Rutte embarks on his new role, he inherits an alliance strengthened under Stoltenberg’s leadership. Since Stoltenberg took office in 2014—just as Russia annexed Crimea—NATO has ramped up its defense posture, a shift that Rutte aims to continue. Stoltenberg’s tenure, second only to Dutch diplomat Joseph Luns, who served for 12 years, leaves a lasting legacy of reinforced NATO unity amid growing global tensions.

The ceremony concluded with Stoltenberg passing a Viking gavel to Rutte, a symbol of the alliance’s continuity and strength. As Rutte settles into his new role, he faces the monumental task of steering NATO through uncertain times while ensuring it remains the cornerstone of trans-Atlantic security.

With the war in Ukraine showing no signs of abating and the U.S. election poised to reshape the global landscape, Rutte’s ability to unify NATO’s 32 members and navigate shifting political currents will be crucial in the months ahead. “I cannot wait to get to work,” he said, poised to begin a term that will likely define NATO’s future course.

Denmark’s incoming envoy to Ethiopia highlights the nation’s key role in stabilizing the Horn of Africa and promoting peace across the continent.

Ethiopia’s leadership in advancing peace and security in Africa, particularly in the Horn of Africa, remains vital to stabilizing the region, according to Denmark’s Ambassador-Designate to Ethiopia, Sune Krogstrup underscored Ethiopia’s longstanding commitment to fostering regional stability and its distinguished record in international peacekeeping missions.

“Ethiopia plays a very important role when it comes to peace and security on the continent, particularly in the Horn of Africa,” Krogstrup stated. He noted that Ethiopia’s proactive engagement with neighboring countries is essential in creating an environment marked by peace and stability.

Ethiopia has been a cornerstone of peace initiatives in the volatile Horn of Africa region, where it has often paid a high price in its efforts to restore stability. Over the years, Ethiopia’s commitment to regional peace has produced tangible successes, including counterterrorism gains that have strengthened the security of the entire region.

This leadership extends beyond the continent. Ethiopia’s contributions to global peacekeeping operations are among the most notable in the world, as the country has been a consistent participant in United Nations (UN)-authorized missions since 1951, beginning with its involvement in the Korean War.

Ethiopia’s contributions to UN peacekeeping missions are extensive, with more than 180,000 Ethiopian peacekeepers having served across various conflict zones since the country first engaged in UN peace operations. Ethiopia’s long-standing dedication to peacekeeping reflects its deep-rooted belief in collective security and multilateralism.

“Ethiopian men and women have played a critical role in supporting the UN’s mission to advance peace in the world’s most challenging hotspots,” Krogstrup noted, lauding Ethiopia’s global and regional efforts.

As one of the top troop-contributing nations, Ethiopia’s commitment to peacekeeping continues to underscore its influence in the maintenance of international peace and security.

Acknowledging the complex challenges facing the Horn of Africa, Krogstrup expressed optimism about Ethiopia’s continued leadership. “This region has been challenged by differences in opinions on critical issues, but we are hopeful that Ethiopia will play its part in ensuring the Horn of Africa moves towards a more secure and peaceful environment,” he said.

The Danish envoy also reaffirmed Denmark’s long-standing support for peace and security initiatives on the continent, particularly through partnerships with the African Union (AU) and other regional organizations.

“We will continue to be a close partner, not just to Ethiopia, but to broader efforts on the continent,” Krogstrup emphasized, reiterating Denmark’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in Africa.

As Ethiopia continues to navigate the challenges of regional conflict and security, its role as a key player in both African and global peace efforts remains indispensable. Through collaboration with international partners, including Denmark, Ethiopia is poised to sustain its contributions to peace and stability in the years to come.

The Dark Turn: A 13-Year-Old Incident Comes to Light

Somali-Canadian rapper K’naan, whose infectious anthem “Wavin’ Flag” became the heartbeat of the 2010 World Cup, now finds himself at the center of a firestorm of controversy. On Thursday, K’naan—known to millions as the voice of hope and resilience—was hit with a stunning accusation: sexual assault. The allegations have shaken his fans to their core, as the rapper faces a potentially career-ending battle.

According to reports out of Quebec City, the 47-year-old rapper, born Keinan Abdi Warsame, is accused of sexually assaulting a woman in her 20s in a hotel room during a music festival in July 2010. The alleged victim, who has remained anonymous, filed a police complaint in May 2022—twelve years after the alleged incident. Why did it take so long? What triggered the revelation now? The lingering questions only add to the intense scrutiny surrounding this case.

K’naan’s legal team entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf in court on Thursday. He wasn’t present. But the real question that has everyone on edge: Could this be the end of K’naan’s inspiring rise from war-torn Somalia to international stardom?

K’naan’s life story has always been one for the history books. Born in Mogadishu in 1978, he escaped the horrors of Somalia’s civil war at just 13, seeking refuge in Canada. He used rap to master the English language, and his raw, soulful lyrics captured global attention. His music spoke to the struggles of his homeland, with “Wavin’ Flag” becoming a beacon of hope for those displaced by war and hardship. The song’s message was simple: no matter how battered and bruised, we will rise again.

But now, that image of resilience is tarnished by these chilling allegations. What happens when a symbol of hope becomes the accused?

From Global Icon to Courtroom Drama: What’s Next for K’naan?

K’naan’s journey from refugee to global superstar was nothing short of meteoric. “Wavin’ Flag” transcended borders, cultures, and languages, landing him collaborations with the likes of Justin Bieber, Drake, and Coca-Cola, which used the song to soundtrack one of the most-watched events in the world—the 2010 FIFA World Cup. He became a hero for millions, particularly in Africa and the diaspora, where his story resonated deeply.

Fast forward to 2023, and after years of silence, K’naan was back in the spotlight, returning with new music and accolades. He even won the prestigious special merit award for best song for social change from the Recording Academy—a testament to the power of his voice in global activism.

But now, the music may stop. The next major chapter in K’naan’s story won’t be written in the studio or on stage, but in a courtroom. A preliminary hearing is set for April 2025, leaving nearly two years of speculation, anticipation, and potential fallout.

As news of the allegations broke, fans and industry peers alike have been left reeling. How could the man who gave the world “Wavin’ Flag”—a song about overcoming darkness—be accused of such a heinous crime? The outpouring of disbelief has been swift, with social media erupting in a mix of heartbreak, shock, and anger. Some remain fiercely loyal, hoping for his innocence, while others are quick to distance themselves.

In the age of #MeToo, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Accusations like these have toppled careers before, and K’naan’s future hangs in the balance.

The timing of the allegations couldn’t be more jarring. Just this week, K’naan was awarded by the Society of Composers, Authors, and Music Publishers of Canada for the lasting cultural impact of “Wavin’ Flag.” His triumphant return to the public eye with new music and a directorial debut at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2023 now seems overshadowed by this unfolding scandal.

Is it possible to separate the artist from the art? Or does this accusation erase the goodwill K’naan built over decades? While his past achievements continue to be celebrated, the looming legal battle casts a dark shadow over what was supposed to be a comeback year for the star.

The Final Question: Is This the Fall of a Hero?

K’naan’s story has always been one of overcoming—rising from the ashes of a brutal war and becoming an international icon. But with these allegations, the world is left wondering: Is this a tragic fall from grace, or is the man behind “Wavin’ Flag” a victim of false accusations?

As the legal process unfolds, the tension between K’naan’s heroic public persona and the disturbing claims against him will continue to drive public debate. And with a trial not scheduled until 2025, the suspense and speculation will keep fans, critics, and the world on edge.

This isn’t just a legal case. It’s a defining moment that could alter the legacy of one of music’s most unlikely global stars. Stay tuned, because this story is far from over.

The United States’ call for African representation at the U.N. Security Council sparks fresh global competition, with China poised to gain from U.S. missteps. 

This week at the United Nations, the United States made a landmark proposal to grant two African countries permanent seats on the U.N. Security Council (UNSC). While this gesture seems like a long-awaited acknowledgment of Africa’s growing role in global affairs, it comes with a significant caveat: the new African members would not have veto power.

For many African leaders, this condition undermines the entire proposition, turning what could have been a watershed moment into a symbolic move with limited real-world impact. This nuance opens up a larger conversation, not just about Africa’s representation at the highest levels of global governance, but about the broader geopolitical contest between the U.S. and China—one that is increasingly playing out in Africa.

Since World War II, the U.N. Security Council has remained dominated by five permanent members with veto power: the U.S., France, the UK, Russia, and China. African leaders have long argued that this arrangement reflects an outdated post-war order, one that fails to represent the continent’s 1.4 billion people or its geopolitical importance. When U.S. President Joe Biden voiced support for African seats on the UNSC, it should have been a moment of triumph. But the lack of veto power—essentially the main source of influence for permanent members—casts a shadow over the proposal.

Kenyan analyst Cliff Mboya sums up the sentiment: “What is the point in joining the Security Council if you don’t have veto powers? What are you going to do there?” For many, this condition feels like a half-measure, further exposing what Mboya calls the West’s “hypocrisy.”

This frustration among African leaders could, paradoxically, bolster China’s influence on the continent. Beijing has long portrayed itself as a champion of the Global South and a critic of Western neo-colonialism. While China’s rhetoric often positions it as a more genuine partner to developing nations, the U.S. proposal, with its significant limitations, risks reinforcing perceptions that Washington is not willing to fully support African empowerment.

China has played a delicate game when it comes to UNSC reform. On the surface, Beijing has expressed support for Africa’s “legitimate interests” in gaining representation, but it has been notably vague when it comes to specific commitments, particularly regarding African countries having veto power. This ambiguity allows China to maintain a favorable position without committing to a plan that might disrupt its strategic interests at the U.N.

Paul Nantulya, a research associate at the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, believes that China’s ambivalence is intentional. While rhetorically backing Africa, China hasn’t clarified whether it supports giving African nations the same veto power that it enjoys. This strategic vagueness allows China to appear aligned with African interests without risking any substantive changes that might weaken its own influence on the UNSC.

Beijing’s approach could allow it to capitalize on any backlash against the U.S. proposal. By keeping its support for Africa’s U.N. ambitions broad but non-committal, China avoids alienating African leaders while waiting to see how the situation evolves. In the long run, this might deepen African countries’ pivot toward China, especially if they feel disillusioned by the limitations of the U.S. offer.

Despite the controversy, some analysts argue that the U.S. proposal is still a win for American diplomacy. Nantulya views it as a significant step forward that opens the door for further negotiations. Even without veto power, African representation on the UNSC would still be a considerable leap from the current status quo.

However, skepticism remains. The lack of a clear timeline for implementing the proposal raises concerns that this might be yet another diplomatic overture without teeth. Any real change to UNSC membership would require a two-thirds vote from the General Assembly and the consent of all five current permanent members, a tall order in the current geopolitical climate. Critics argue that the U.S. might be using this proposal to score points with African nations without any real intention to push it through.

This uncertainty plays into China’s hands. If the U.S. is seen as making empty promises, it could further erode its credibility in Africa, while China, with its track record of infrastructure investment and economic partnerships, could continue to deepen its ties on the continent.

Many African leaders aren’t satisfied with partial solutions. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and other leaders have called for comprehensive U.N. reform, pointing out that Africa’s exclusion from key decision-making bodies like the UNSC is a glaring injustice in today’s world. Some African nations are even advocating for the total abolition of veto power, a radical move that could fundamentally reshape how the UNSC operates.

If the U.S. and its allies want to remain relevant in this conversation, they may need to offer more than just symbolic gestures. The growing influence of African nations in global economics and politics demands more than a seat at the table—it demands real power.

If Africa does eventually gain two permanent seats on the UNSC, the question remains: who will fill them? South Africa, the continent’s largest economy, Nigeria, its most populous nation, and Egypt, a North African heavyweight, are all top contenders. But the process of selecting these representatives could create new divisions on the continent. As Nantulya points out, the competition for these seats might drive a wedge between African countries, with regional rivalries threatening to overshadow the broader goal of securing more influence at the U.N.

This internal competition could further complicate Africa’s path to permanent UNSC membership. Additionally, the very structure of the U.N. makes reform an arduous process, and with the need for agreement among the current permanent members, there’s no guarantee that the U.S. proposal will ever come to fruition.

As the U.S. and China vie for influence across the globe, Africa is emerging as a crucial battleground. The continent’s resources, growing economies, and strategic importance make it a prime target for both powers. The U.S. proposal to grant Africa permanent seats on the UNSC can be seen as part of a broader strategy to win over African leaders in the face of China’s growing presence. But if Washington’s efforts are perceived as insincere or inadequate, they could backfire.

China, with its long-standing ties to Africa through the Belt and Road Initiative and other economic ventures, is positioning itself as the continent’s more reliable partner. If the U.S. wants to counter this narrative, it will need to offer more than partial solutions. African nations are increasingly asserting themselves on the global stage, and they won’t settle for half-measures.

The People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) has alleged that its leader, Mlungisi Makhanya, was poisoned in an assassination attempt in South Africa. This claim brings renewed attention to the southern African kingdom, one of the world’s last remaining absolute monarchies, where authorities have long been accused of suppressing pro-democracy efforts.

Makhanya, a vocal pro-democracy leader, was reportedly poisoned just as he was preparing to lead new protests against King Mswati III’s regime next month. The poisoning has drawn condemnation from opposition groups across the region, including South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, which denounced it as an act of repression by Eswatini’s monarchy.

Makhanya’s alleged poisoning comes in the wake of other high-profile incidents, such as the assassination of human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko in 2022, which opposition leaders also blamed on the government. Although the government has consistently denied involvement in these incidents, they have fueled further unrest and calls for reform in Eswatini.

Eswatini, previously known as Swaziland, is ruled by King Mswati III, who wields extensive control over all branches of government. Since ascending the throne in 1986, Mswati has maintained a tight grip on power, with political parties banned since the 1970s, though some opposition movements like PUDEMO have been allowed limited operation. However, despite these restrictions, pro-democracy movements have grown stronger in recent years, culminating in widespread protests in 2021, which were met with violent repression by security forces.

The alleged poisoning of Makhanya, which occurred as he was organizing new demonstrations, highlights the ongoing tension between the monarchy and opposition groups. The king’s regime has long been accused of stifling dissent through force and intimidation. This latest incident could further inflame tensions, especially as Eswatini prepares for another wave of protests.

Makhanya’s alleged poisoning is likely to draw more international attention to Eswatini’s political situation. South Africa, which has been a haven for exiled opposition leaders, could face pressure to intervene diplomatically. South African political parties like the EFF have already condemned the attack and accused the Eswatini government of orchestrating it.

At the international level, human rights organizations have condemned Eswatini for its handling of pro-democracy protests, accusing the government of serious human rights violations, including the killing of protesters. The growing unrest and the government’s harsh response may prompt further scrutiny from bodies like the African Union and the United Nations.

King Mswati III has ruled Eswatini for nearly four decades, presiding over a monarchy known for its lavish displays of wealth amidst widespread poverty. He has faced growing criticism from his citizens and international observers for his extravagant lifestyle and the state’s failure to address basic social and economic needs. With poverty levels high and political freedoms severely restricted, calls for democratic reforms have gained momentum, particularly after the deadly crackdown on protesters in 2021.

The assassination of Thulani Maseko, a prominent human rights lawyer and PUDEMO member, and now the alleged poisoning of Makhanya are seen as part of a broader pattern of political repression under Mswati’s rule. The government’s denial of involvement in these incidents has done little to ease tensions, as no one has been held accountable for these violent acts.

The poisoning allegations against Makhanya have further escalated the already tense political climate in Eswatini. If the planned protests proceed, they could lead to a renewed crackdown by the government, resulting in further violence and repression. With opposition leaders increasingly under threat, the international community may need to engage more forcefully to prevent further bloodshed and support a peaceful transition toward democracy.

King Mswati’s continued refusal to engage with opposition groups or enact significant political reforms suggests that the country’s political impasse will persist, potentially destabilizing the nation. The actions taken in the coming months, both by Eswatini’s government and international actors, will likely determine whether the pro-democracy movement can gain ground or be suppressed once again.

SSC Terrorists Plot to Sabotage Somaliland’s Stability — Election Must Be Postponed

Somaliland faces a growing and immediate threat that could destabilize the entire region. Intelligence reports indicate that SSC Khatumo terrorists, armed with sophisticated weaponry supplied by Somalia, Egypt, and Turkey, are plotting an all-out assault on Somaliland’s eastern Sanag region. With a planned attack looming in early October 2024, the Somaliland government must act decisively — starting by postponing the November 13 elections and redirecting focus toward the nation’s defense.

This isn’t just a security threat — it’s an existential crisis. Somaliland’s survival as the sole functioning democracy in the Horn of Africa is under siege.

For months, SSC Khatumo terrorists, emboldened by external backing, have prepared for a major offensive against Somaliland. Videos circulating online show SSC militants flaunting newly acquired military equipment — much of it traced to Somalia and Egypt, with logistical support rumored from Turkey. This new arsenal includes high-caliber arms capable of wreaking havoc on Somaliland’s security forces, infrastructure, and civilian population.

Their target? The strategic Sanag region, already battered by ongoing conflict. Their objective? To destabilize the heart of Somaliland, undermining its governance and democratic process. Intelligence indicates that the first wave of attacks could begin as early as the first week of October 2024, leaving Somaliland dangerously exposed unless immediate action is taken.

This is not a conflict waiting to happen — it’s already in motion. The Somaliland government must act swiftly to counter this imminent threat, and the first step is postponing the November election. Anything less would be reckless.

Elections are a hallmark of Somaliland’s democracy, but holding them amidst such a severe security threat would be a grave mistake. Postponing the election is not a sign of weakness — it’s a necessary step to ensure the survival of the nation. The government’s priority should be defending its people, not bowing to internal pressures from politicians, media, or opposition groups.

Recent polls show that a majority of Somalilanders are deeply concerned about the rising threat posed by SSC terrorists in Lasanod. Yet, there seems to be hesitation from the government to take the bold actions necessary to protect the country. Leaders must recognize that this is not a time for business as usual. If Somaliland falls into chaos, the dream of recognition, stability, and independence will crumble — and with it, the hopes of millions.

What makes this threat even more dire is the external interference fueling it. Somalia, desperate to thwart Somaliland’s independence ambitions, has entered into a dangerous pact with Egypt and Turkey. Recent intelligence reports confirm that Egypt has been supplying heavy weaponry to Somalia, with at least two shipments arriving in Mogadishu over the past month. These arms have made their way into the hands of SSC terrorists, who are now better equipped to wage war against Somaliland.

Egypt, intent on expanding its influence in the Horn of Africa, views Somaliland as a threat to its regional aspirations. Turkey, too, has its own strategic interests in Somalia and the Red Sea, making this alliance a potent force aligned against Somaliland’s sovereignty.

This coordination between Somalia, Egypt, and Turkey represents an existential threat. The weapons flowing into SSC hands are not just tools of war; they are symbols of a broader strategy to undermine Somaliland’s sovereignty, security, and democratic values. Ignoring this threat is not an option.

Even Somaliland’s neighbors are alarmed by these developments. Ethiopia has publicly expressed grave concerns over the influx of weapons into Somalia, warning that these arms could easily be diverted to terrorist groups like SSC and Al-Shabab. Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Taye Astke Selassie recently noted that these arms shipments risk further destabilizing an already fragile region. The implications of this conflict spreading beyond Somaliland’s borders are too serious to ignore.

If the international community, including Ethiopia and the United States, fails to intervene, this crisis could escalate into a broader regional conflict, with devastating consequences for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.

The SSC’s most notorious leader, Abdi Madobe, is no stranger to violence. Once an elite commander for Al-Shabab, Madobe now leads SSC militants in their quest to destroy Somaliland. He has openly threatened to bring terror to Sanag, promising to replicate the gruesome atrocities witnessed in Lasanod last year, where dozens of captured Somaliland soldiers were brutally executed on live television.

Madobe’s forces are not just planning an attack; they are planning a massacre. Their stated goal is clear: to overrun Sanag, slaughter Somalilanders, and terrorize the local population into submission. This is the future Somaliland faces if the government fails to act.

Somaliland cannot afford to be complacent in the face of such an imminent threat. The government must immediately suspend the upcoming elections and prioritize national defense. Anything less would be an unforgivable dereliction of duty.

Somalilanders deserve a government that protects them, not one that is distracted by political maneuvering. The SSC terrorists, backed by Somalia, Egypt, and Turkey, are planning an attack that could destroy everything Somaliland has worked for.

This is a call to arms for every patriotic Somalilander: stand with your government, support the defense of your nation, and prepare for the fight of your lives. Somaliland’s future hangs in the balance.

Somaliland Government, Postpone the Elections. Prepare for War. Save the Nation.

Imagine being trapped in a web so twisted that you can’t even see the danger closing in. That’s precisely what’s happening across the Middle East, where Iran’s invisible hand plays a lethal game, exploiting Arab lives to fuel its relentless quest for power. From the wreckage of Syria to the ruins of Yemen, Tehran’s shadowy network of proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, are turning entire nations into graveyards. But here’s the catch—the blood being spilled isn’t Persian. It’s Arab.

It’s as if Iran has mastered a psychological narcotic, distorting reality in the minds of many across the Arab world. The destruction Iran brings is dressed up as “resistance” while Arab countries are reduced to ash. These places should be thriving, yet they resemble ghost towns where Iran’s terror militias—like the so-called “Axis of Resistance”—reign supreme. Decisions, resources, and the future of entire countries are held hostage by these armed militias. They defend Iran’s regime while leaving Arab lands in ruins.

For Iran, the October 7 attack was nothing but another play in a high-stakes game. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei didn’t mince words when he declared that this was the moment the region needed. Why wouldn’t he celebrate? The bodies piling up aren’t Persian, after all. It’s the Palestinians and Arab nations that pay the price in blood, while Iran reaps the rewards of chaos and division. Even Mahmoud Abbas, who dared to push back, was attacked while Khamenei’s venomous words were applauded.

If you need proof that Iran has no loyalty to the Arab world, look no further than their own admissions. In June, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani, in a shocking moment of honesty, declared that Iran was fighting for its “share” of the region, hinting that this conflict wasn’t about ideology—it was about carving up the Middle East. Yet, somehow, this explosive confession didn’t even register in the Arab media echo chambers.

And Khamenei’s chilling tweet in August? It was a clarion call for never-ending conflict, a fight between “Husseini and Yazidi” that will rage for eternity. Once again, silence followed—no outrage, no pushback from those who claim to stand against oppression. It’s as if the Arab world, or at least its media, is in a trance, unable to see that Iran views Sunni Arabs not as brothers, but as tools in their sectarian empire-building project.

The most glaring truth is that Iran’s strategy only works because so many in the Arab world remain blind to the devastation Tehran has unleashed. While nations that have made peace with Israel thrive—look at Jordan, Bahrain, and the UAE—those caught in Iran’s grip sink deeper into despair. Isn’t it time for a reckoning?

Iran’s masterful manipulation of Arab anger against Israel has blinded too many to the real danger lurking in their midst. As long as the Arab world continues to ignore the true source of their misery, the mullahs in Tehran will keep playing their deadly game, laughing all the way as Arab lands burn.

The time has come for the Arab world to wake up and face the reality that their true enemy isn’t Israel—it’s Iran. Will Arab nations continue to be pawns in Tehran’s sinister game? Or will they finally break free from Iran’s chokehold and reclaim their future?