Somalia president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called upon Arab countries to to help his country to outdo Al Qaida affiliated group, Al Shabaab.
Following the latest attack on Makka Al Makkaramah Hotel in the Mogadishu, the president said Al Shabaab is a huge threat to his country’s national security.
The Friday attack which left at least 26 people dead and scores injured started when al Shabaab gunmen stormed the hotel after a suicide bomber had blown himself up near the hotel.
The terrorists on gaining entry into the hotel started shooting at anyone on sight in an operation that lasted 16 hours.
Field intelligence indicates that about four terrorists participated in the attack. Somali Special Forces and troops stormed the hotel and the ensuing gunfight led to the deaths of the terrorists as well as Somali troops.
The hotel is popular with both foreigners and Somali government officials. It is situated along the strategic road linking the Presidential Palace to the Airport.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has also called Arab countries to participate the reconstruction of Somalia and also requested Arab countries to open their markets to Somalia products.
