Somalia: Armed Clashes Erupt in Mogadishu As Somalia Political Crisis Deepens

Heavy fighting erupted in parts of Mogadishu on Wednesday as forces aligned with Somalia's government and opposition exchanged gunfire, escalating a political crisis over the electoral process and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's mandate. Witnesses reported gunfire near the presidential palace, causing civilians to flee and businesses to close. International partners including the UN and EU urged dialogue to avoid wider conflict. No official casualty figures were immediately available.