Gunfire echoed through several districts of the Somali capital, with smoke rising over residential areas after hours of sporadic battles. Police said they were conducting a large-scale security operation against heavily armed militias accused of launching mortar attacks on parts of the city.

The violence follows a deepening political crisis after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced an extension of his term beyond its scheduled May 15 expiry, a move rejected by opposition leaders and several regional authorities.

Former prime minister Hassan Ali Khaire accused government forces of attacking his convoy on Wednesday as he prepared to participate in demonstrations against the extension. Witnesses also reported clashes near the residence of former president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed.

The unrest comes as opposition groups mobilize protests against Mohamud’s plan to advance constitutional reforms and move Somalia toward direct elections, a proposal critics say concentrates power in the presidency.

Somalia remains politically fragile, with divisions among rival clans and a continuing insurgency by Al-Shabab complicating efforts to implement nationwide electoral reforms.

The visit comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions in the Horn of Africa following Israel’s official recognition of Somaliland, a move that drew strong opposition from Mogadishu and raised concerns over the region’s stability, sovereignty, and the delicate balance of federal relations within Somalia.

During his visit, Mohamud attended the inauguration of the president of the newly created Northeast State, which became Somalia’s sixth federal state in August, encompassing the regions of Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn — all areas that Somaliland considers part of its territory.

The president’s presence in Las Anod is seen as a symbolic effort to strengthen the unity of the Somali federation and reinforce the federal government’s commitment to territorial integrity, governance, and national cohesion.

Las Anod had been under the control of Somaliland since 2007 but was forced to withdraw in 2023 after violent clashes with Somali forces and pro-Mogadishu militias left numerous casualties, highlighting the fragile security situation and complex territorial disputes in northern Somalia.

Mohamud’s visit underscores the federal government’s determination to assert authority over semi-autonomous regions while maintaining dialogue and cooperation with local administrations and communities in the northeast of the country.

The Northeast State aims to consolidate federal governance and improve administrative services, security, and economic development across its territories.

By participating in the state’s presidential inauguration, Mohamud reinforced Somalia’s federal structure and demonstrated support for democratic processes, local leadership, and the expansion of government institutions into regions affected by conflict and contested claims.

Mohamud’s visit also carries significant diplomatic implications as it comes shortly after international developments, including Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, which has been opposed by the Somali government.

The federal government seeks to maintain regional stability, manage international relations, and prevent the escalation of disputes with Somaliland, while ensuring that local communities benefit from federal support, investment, and infrastructure development.

This historic visit reflects the federal government’s broader strategy to assert national authority, promote unity among Somalia’s semi-autonomous states, and strengthen governance structures in contested areas.

It also aims to send a message to domestic and international stakeholders that Somalia remains committed to its territorial integrity, political cohesion, and the peaceful resolution of regional disputes through dialogue, legal frameworks, and inclusive governance.