MOGADISHU – The International partners have called strongly condemned the escalation of conflict and hostilities in the besieged town of Lascanood.

In a joint statement, the international community called on all sides to prioritise unconditional ceasefire and stop mobilizing fighters.

“We urge all sides to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. We call for an end to the mobilization of fighters and to the provision of supplies and armaments,” they said.

The foreign diplomats expressed deep regret and concern about reports of great numbers of detainees and urged expected those implicated to observe human rights and international humanitarian law, in particular the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure.

“We reiterate the importance of ensuring unhindered humanitarian access and delivery of assistance to those in need,” reads the statement in part.

They eventually reiterated the call for refrain of divisive rhetoric that could further jeopardize the situation on the ground.

The call by the foreign missions in Mogadishu comes barely a day after SSC-Khatumo allied forces seized the strategic Goojacadde military base outside Lascanood from Somaliland troops following a deadly clashes.

The camp served as a coordination and command centre for the breakaway region for the eight months the war was raging.