On February 1, 2025, the U.S. military conducted airstrikes against members of the Islamic State in the Golas Mountains in northern Somalia. Around 50 terrorists were killed in these attacks, including a high-level operation planner. According to intelligence sources, IS-Somalia fighters are between 500 and 700, most of which are active in the highlands of Puntland.
The US Africa Command has confirmed that the airstrikes were carried out with utmost precision, with no civilian casualties. Over the past year, US forces have conducted more than 20 counter-terrorism operations in Somalia, resulting in a significant reduction in the strength of extremist groups.
U.S. Airstrikes Targeting Islamic State in Somalia
On February 1, 2025, the United States launched airstrikes in the Golas Mountains of Somalia, aimed at targeting key ISIS members. More than 50 militants were killed in the operation, which was part of a larger strategy of more than 30 airstrikes carried out over the past year. The main objective of these attacks was to reduce the influence of ISIS in northern Somalia.
Impact on Militant Operations and Leadership
The airstrikes targeted ISIS’ top commanders, killing about 15 percent of their top officers. Over the past year, US forces have killed around 200 militants who had joined various groups. This has reduced their ability to carry out terrorist operations in and around northern Somalia.
Strategic Coordination with the Somali Government
The US operation was carried out in cooperation with the Somali Central Army, which provided accurate information. This cooperation has resulted in a 25 percent increase in joint military operations over the past two years. The Somali Army has played an important role in identifying terrorist hideouts and monitoring ISIS activities in remote areas.
Long-Term Counterterrorism Efforts in the Region
The United States has stepped up its counterterrorism operations in Somalia, conducting more than 40 airstrikes last year. Terrorist incidents in central Somalia have dropped by 30 percent, demonstrating the success of these efforts. The United States has pledged to expand these measures to promote long-term security.
US airstrikes in Somalia are part of an ongoing effort to disrupt the operations of terrorist groups and weaken their power. With more than 200 militants killed over the past year, these attacks are having a profound impact on ISIS-Somalia’s leadership and operational capabilities.
The United States is working with the central government of Somalia to curb the threat of extremism and bring stability to the region. Sustained operations against terrorism are essential to establishing lasting peace and security in the Horn of Africa. The path can be strengthened.
