Several international flights were recently forced to divert from Somaliland's airspace following the introduction of new aviation regulations requiring prior clearance for all aircraft. Sources indicate that these flights were rerouted to neighboring Djibouti and Ethiopia after failing to secure the necessary authorizations. Officials stressed that this marks the active enforcement of the new directive, potentially impacting overflight fees traditionally collected by Somalia.

In response to what it describes as ongoing interference by Somalia in its airspace and immigration systems, Somaliland hosted briefings for representatives from key international organizations and nations, including the United Nations, European Union, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom. Minister of the Presidency, Khadar Hussein Abdi, emphasized that Somaliland is acting decisively to protect its sovereignty against external interference.

Fuad Ahmed Nuh, Somaliland's Minister of Civil Aviation, confirmed that all airlines traversing the region had been notified of the requirement for explicit permission before entering Somaliland’s skies. With approximately 90 aircraft passing daily, Minister Nuh noted that 40 percent of airlines have already complied, while non-compliant carriers are being directed to divert, highlighting Somaliland’s firm stance on airspace control.

A dedicated aviation committee further informed diplomats that Somalia would be held responsible for any consequences resulting from actions Somaliland deems unsafe or unlawful. This step underscores the growing tension and Somaliland’s formal measures to assert autonomy in aviation affairs.

Separately, Somalia faces a significant cybersecurity incident affecting its e-Visa platform. Reports indicate a major data breach exposing sensitive personal information, including passport photos, identification documents, and visa applications for foreign nationals such as U.S. and U.K. citizens, diplomats, and aid workers.

Somaliland authorities have criticized the data leak, asserting that Somalia's e-Visa system holds no legal authority over travel to Somaliland. Officials warned that the breach presents serious data-security and privacy risks for international travelers, further complicating the already tense relationship between Somaliland and Somalia over border and aviation control.