US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar sparks controversy over remarks on Somalia, faces criticism

Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar is facing online criticism following the viral video of her controversial remarks expressing support for Somalia in its territorial dispute with Somaliland. The video received almost 2.6 million views on microblogging platform X where Omar was seen discussing the January 1 memorandum between Somaliland and Ethiopia during a speech at a Minneapolis hotel on January 27.

We were profoundly surprised, even shocked on discovering the remarks made by Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D) of Minnesota in a recent public forum, widely circulated on most social media platforms and attached below for your reference.

The language she employed was regrettably… pic.twitter.com/7Ag9ZafTKY

— Ambassador Rhoda J Elmi (@AmbRhodaJElmi) January 28, 2024

What did Ilhan Omar say? 

In the video, translated statements attributed to Omar suggest her strong endorsement of Somalia's claims, asserting, "As Somalis, one day we will go after our missing territories." 

She added, "The U.S. government will only do what Somalians in the US tell them to do! They will do what we want and nothing else. They must follow our orders and that is how we will safeguard the interest of Somalia. We Somalians must have confidence in ourselves that we call for the shots in the US. We live in the US, pay taxes in the US, and have a real voice."

During her address, Omar made striking statements about the influence of Somalis in the United States, asserting that the U.S. government would only act in accordance with the wishes of Somalis residing in the country. She also proclaimed, "Sleep in comfort knowing I am here to protect the interests of Somalia from inside the US system."

Somalia and Ethiopia are entangled in a dispute over the territory of Somaliland, claimed by Somalia but aspiring to independence. The recent deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland to establish a naval base has heightened tensions, with Somalia denouncing it as an "act of invasion."

Expel from Congress, denaturalize and deport! https://t.co/UyjEmSSIoQ

— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) January 30, 2024

Ilhan Omar faces deportation call as her video went viral

Omar's remarks triggered a wave of criticism, with accusations that she prioritized loyalty to her birth country over the United States. Somaliland Ambassador Rhoda Elmi condemned Omar's speech as "regrettably unbecoming" and criticized her use of "ethno-racist rhetoric." Critics, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, called for Omar's removal from Congress and deportation.

What is Ilhan Omar's response to criticism?

In response to the backlash, Omar defended her statements, accusing 'propagandists' of misinterpreting her speech. She emphasized the unity of Somalis in opposing unauthorized land lease negotiations and expressed solidarity with their efforts.

Despite online support defending Omar's speech, the controversy adds to a series of criticisms she has faced for her stances on various issues. Previously voted off the Foreign Affairs Committee and known for her anti-Israel and anti-India positions, Omar's statements continue to generate heated debate. Born in Somalia, Omar fled to the United States in 1995 and has served as the first Somali-American congresswoman, representing Minnesota from 2017 to 2019.