[4] Maakhir is the only Somali territory to never be ruled by a foreign power.

Until 1949, the northern region of Somalia (including Maakhir, which was fully autonomous) was known to the Western world as British Somaliland.

[5] In February 2008, Somaliland armed forces laid siege to Hadaftimo, causing a state of emergency before the troops withdrew into Erigavo.

Maakhir responded by increasing its military presence in Erigavo.

[6] On 9 July, hostilities were reignited when Somaliland troops invaded and occupied Laas Qoray port, under the pretense of rescuing German citizens who were allegedly being held hostage by pirates in the area.