Ethiopia is re-engaging with Jubaland in a strategic move to restore its waning influence and address the rising Al-Shabaab threat in Somalia’s Gedo region. In late February, Ethiopian AMISOM commanders met with President Ahmed Madoobe and senior security officials to strengthen cooperation. This marked a notable shift after years of strained relations following Ethiopia’s failed 2019 attempt to coerce Madoobe during a controversial election, which nearly resulted in military confrontation with Kenyan forces in Kismayo. Under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopia abandoned its traditionally balanced Somalia policy, aligning instead with outgoing President Farmaajo. This partisan stance alienated Somali federal states, particularly Jubaland. Abiy’s broader Tripartite Alliance with Eritrea and Somalia, viewed as anti-federalist, intensified tensions further. The deployment of elite Turkish-trained forces to Gedo without Jubaland’s consent only deepened the rift.