Puntland

Puntland is a semi-autonomous region within Somalia. Recent news highlights its involvement in broader Somali issues. Somalia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs has cited Puntland, along with Somaliland and Jubaland, as regions receiving support from the UAE, alleging this contributes to the country's fragmentation. Simultaneously, Somalia faces significant security challenges, with the US military conducting airstrikes against al-Shabab and ISIS affiliates within the country, though the articles don't specify if these strikes are within Puntland itself. Furthermore, Somalia's upcoming 2026 elections are at risk of a legitimacy crisis due to unilateral reforms and political deadlock, impacting the stability of regions like Puntland. Puntland's relevance stems from its semi-autonomous status, its role in Somalia's internal political dynamics, and its potential vulnerability to the security threats present in the region.