Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines have both suspended their direct flights to Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, following security warnings issued last night.
The two airlines informed passengers that there would be no scheduled flights to Mogadishu in the coming days. While the airlines did not provide detailed explanations for their decision, it is widely believed that the suspensions are linked to recent security alerts.
This development follows a warning from the U.S. Embassy in Somalia, which cautioned American citizens about “credible intelligence indicating the possibility of imminent attacks” in the country. The warning specifically mentioned threats to multiple locations, including Aden Adde International Airport, prompting the immediate suspension of flights by Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines.
The embassy’s statement, published on its official website, also instructed its staff to halt all non-essential movements within Somalia.
“The U.S. Embassy in Somalia reminds American citizens that terrorist groups continue to plan kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the country,” the statement read. “These attacks could happen with little or no warning and may target airports, seaports, security checkpoints, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, markets, and crowded public spaces, particularly those frequented by Westerners.”
In response, security forces in Mogadishu have been placed on high alert, with authorities tightening security measures around key locations identified in the warning.
The timing of this security threat is critical, as it coincides with ongoing military operations in the Middle Shabelle region. Somali government forces are currently engaged in intense battles against Al-Shabaab militants, who have recently taken control of several areas near Mogadishu.
