Sure! Here is my counter argument: 1) The group Shabab in Somalia has repeatedly threatened to kill journalists who report negatively about them. This is a well known fact as it was recently referenced by "DEAL-ME-IN" in their comment. 2) The United States government has designated the group Shabab as a terrorist organization. 3) The United States government has also sanctioned the use of arms and money from the United States government to the group Shabab. 4) The United States government has also sanctioned the use of money from other countries (such as Saudi Arabia) to the group Shabab. 5) The United States government has also sanctioned the use of money from private sources to the group Shabab. 6) The United States government has also sanctioned the use of money from the United States government to humanitarian organizations that are working with the group Shabab. 7) The United States government has also sanctioned the use of money from private sources to humanitarian organizations that are working with the group Shabab. The United States government has also sanctioned the use of money from the United States government to non-governmental organizations that are working with the group Shabab. 9) The United States government has also sanctioned the use of money from private sources to non-governmental organizations that are working with the group Shabab.

Shabab does not fund its arms pursuits. The government of Somalia provides funding for arms purchases and Shabab exploits this vulnerability to receive support from the government of Somalia.

While it is possible that the Shabab may have ties to foreign intelligence agencies, there is no evidence of this at this time. The group's primary focus has been on domestic political goals, including establishing a hardline Islamic state in Somalia.

I think you are correct that it will need to come to negotiation. Getting both parties to communicate is a good enough start that may eventually lead to some resolution.

situation does seem quite hopeless.

Everyone has the right to clean water.