A 'assassination attempt' against a Somali minister was thwarted.

Abdi said Muse Ali, Somali Foreign Minister, claims to have escaped an assassination attempt by regional government forces in the north-eastern state of Puntland.

Mr. Ali said he was on vacation in Galkayo when a provincial police commander ordered local security men "to attack us" late Thursday.

He claimed the attack occurred when his family was eating iftar, a Ramadan meal served after sundown hosted by a local traditional elder.

"I strongly condemn the use of violence to [obtain] political goals, and I will hold all parties responsible by all means necessary," he stated.

Ahmed Karash, the deputy leader of Puntland, condemned the incident and promised an investigation.

According to state television, the attack on the minister resulted in the death of one soldier and the injuries of three others.

The event occurred amid rising tensions and a drawn-out political process tainted by allegations of fraud and irregularities.