Sunatimes journalists on the ground witnessed the aftermath of intense fighting, including burned armored vehicles and damaged residential areas. Residents reported hearing explosions and heavy gunfire as confrontations escalated between forces aligned with the government and opposition groups.

"We saw military vehicles burning in the streets and entire neighborhoods shaken by the fighting," one resident told Sunatimes.

Opposition leaders claim that Turkish-supplied armored vehicles and drone technology were deployed during operations targeting areas associated with opposition politicians, traditional elders, and civilians. These allegations have not been independently verified.

Growing Concerns Over Foreign Military Assistance

Opposition representatives argue that military equipment intended to strengthen Somalia's security institutions should not be used in domestic political confrontations.

"Military assistance intended to protect the nation should never become part of an internal political conflict," an opposition representative said.

The accusations come despite reports that a senior Turkish intelligence delegation recently arrived in Mogadishu and held discussions with opposition figures aimed at reducing tensions and preventing further escalation.

Turkey Denies Taking Sides

According to participants familiar with the meetings, Turkish officials emphasized that Ankara supports Somalia's stability and does not seek to take sides in domestic political disputes.

"Turkey wants stability and dialogue. We are not here to support conflict between Somalis," a source familiar with the discussions quoted Turkish officials as saying.

Despite those assurances, some opposition leaders remain skeptical and continue to question Ankara's relationship with political actors involved in the crisis.

Political Crisis Deepens

Turkey has been one of Somalia's closest international partners for more than a decade, investing heavily in security cooperation, military training, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and humanitarian assistance.

Political analysts warn that the growing confrontation risks damaging public confidence and increasing scrutiny of foreign involvement in Somalia's internal affairs.

"The longer the political crisis continues, the greater the danger that international partners become entangled in Somalia's domestic political disputes," said a Mogadishu-based political analyst.

Calls for Dialogue and Restraint

As tensions continue, civil society organizations and international observers are calling for restraint, protection of civilians, and renewed political dialogue to prevent further violence.

The latest developments underscore the fragile nature of Somalia's political transition and the urgent need for a negotiated settlement capable of preserving stability while protecting constitutional rights and democratic processes.

By Dahir Alasow