A series of heavy US strikes on ISIS positions were launched in the mountainous regions of Bari, Puntland, after local forces faced difficulties accessing the militants’ hideouts.
According to local reports, the strikes lasted for several hours and were heard near Bosaso, close to the Baladi Valley where ISIS fighters are believed to be based.
American aircraft also targeted Biiyo Kulule Valley following intelligence from Puntland military officials who confirmed sightings of ISIS militants in the area.
Clashes Preceded the US Strikes on ISIS
The airstrikes followed intense clashes between Puntland forces and ISIS militants just two days earlier. Nearly 20 Puntland soldiers were killed and over 30 others injured in fierce fighting at Beer Maragdi in the Baladi Valley, one of ISIS’s major strongholds.
Security officials described the battle in the Almiskad Mountains as one of the bloodiest in recent months.
The clashes broke out after Puntland troops attacked a large ISIS base believed to serve as a weapons and supply center.
Local sources added that families of militants were also present in the area.
US Strikes on ISIS Final Major Strongholds
Puntland authorities paused their ground operations to allow US airpower to neutralize caves and fortified hideouts used by ISIS.
Officials believe the targeted areas represent the final major strongholds of the group in the region.
A military spokesperson from Puntland emphasized that the campaign, which began in December, has already achieved significant gains.
However, the rugged terrain has prolonged the conflict, making US support crucial in dismantling the extremist group’s remaining networks.
Ongoing Anti-ISIS Campaign
The US strikes on ISIS in Puntland highlight a continuous dedication to fight terrorism all around the world and especially in the Horn of Africa.
While Puntland forces have successfully pushed militants from several areas, the Almiskad mountain range continues to provide natural protection for insurgents.
Officials remain optimistic that with continued US support, Puntland will eventually succeed in eradicating ISIS from the region.
Source: Alsomal Aljadid
