Since January 2025, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), in partnership with the Somali government, has intensified its counterterrorism operations in Bari region.
AFRICOM operations aim to neutralize extremist threats posed by both ISIS and Al-Shabaab in the country’s northeastern regions.
AFRICOM Airstrikes in Bari Region Between May 31 and June 1, 2025
On May 31 and June 1, 2025, AFRICOM conducted two precision airstrikes against ISIS militants in Bari region, located in northeastern Somalia.
According to the Somali National News Agency (SONNA), the first strike occurred approximately 75 kilometers south of Bosaso.
While the second was carried out 72 kilometers south of the city, both targeting known ISIS positions.
Objective: Disrupting ISIS Operations in Somalia
AFRICOM stated that these strikes were part of a broader effort to disrupt ISIS’s operational capabilities and prevent the group from planning and executing attacks that endanger:
- Somali civilians
- National security forces
- International partners operating in the region
These airstrikes represent a continued commitment by the U.S. and Somali authorities to dismantle terrorist networks and strengthen regional security.
AFRICOM’s Airstrike Campaign 2025: A Broader Pattern
May and June strikes are part of a series of coordinated operations launched throughout 2025.
Since January, AFRICOM has conducted multiple airstrikes in Somalia, primarily in:
- Galmudug and Jubaland, targeting Al-Shabaab hideouts
- Bari region, focusing on ISIS cells and infrastructure
- Areas with reported insurgent regrouping following government offensives
Each mission is carefully executed with the Somali government’s coordination to ensure minimal civilian harm and maximum impact on terrorist logistics, leadership, and communication chains.
The Ongoing Threat of ISIS and Al-Shabaab in Somalia
While Al-Shabaab remains Somalia’s primary insurgent group, ISIS continues to maintain a foothold in the remote mountains of Puntland, especially around Bari region.
The group has used this terrain to:
- Train new recruits
- Plan urban attacks
- Compete with Al-Shabaab for influence and resources
The recent AFRICOM airstrikes in Bari region are aimed at disrupting these efforts and preventing ISIS from regaining strength.
International Collaboration Remains Key
These recent operations underscore the importance of international military cooperation.
Particularly between AFRICOM and Somali forces.
As Somalia continues to stabilize its governance and rebuild its institutions, security efforts like these airstrikes play a vital role in suppressing extremist threats and paving the way for long-term peace.
