Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-n a significant move on Sunday, Somali religious scholars (Culimaa’) issued a seven-point fatwa following discussions about Ethiopia’s alleged intentions to claim Somali land and sea territories. During their meeting in Mogadishu, the scholars emphasized the need to defend Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity, while supporting President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s leadership.

The key points of the fatwa include:

1. A religious obligation to defend Somalia’s sovereignty and unity.
2. A call for all Somalis—cultural leaders, intellectuals, politicians, women, and youth—to unite in defense of the country and avoid actions that threaten national unity.
3. A stern warning against divisive rhetoric on social media, urging citizens to protect Somali unity and values.
4. An appeal for the government to engage with discontented groups to foster national cohesion.
5. A call for Ethiopian citizens to encourage their leaders to maintain peace and good neighborly relations between the two nations.
6. Praise for the Somali government’s efforts, under President Mohamud, to protect national unity and territorial integrity.
7. Support for Somalia’s diplomatic engagements with Islamic nations to safeguard its national interests.

The scholars’ declaration comes as tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia continue to escalate. Attempts at resolving the conflict, including Turkey-brokered talks in Ankara, have yet to yield a solution. Another round of discussions is scheduled for September 17. Despite Djibouti’s offer of port access to Ethiopia, and Somaliland’s MoU granting Ethiopia sea access in exchange for recognition, the dispute remains unresolved.