Somalia military campaign against terrorist organizations, particularly al-Shabaab, the al-Qaeda-linked militant group entered a new level with precise coordinated operations that dismantle the group networks and liberate many areas.
Major Offensive in Lower Shabelle
In a large-scale operation in Awdheegle, Lower Shabelle, Somalia’s elite Danab Special Forces announced the killing of more than 100 al-Shabaab fighters.
The forces also destroyed a vast network of underground tunnels and fortified hideouts.
The Somali National Army described the offensive as “well-planned and successfully executed,” confirming that no casualties were recorded among government troops or their international partners.
The Somali Ministry of Defense emphasized that the operation represents a significant step in Somalia military campaign to regain full control over central and southern regions from extremist groups.
Launch of Operation “Hidden Storm” in Middle Shabelle
Simultaneously, the federal government launched a new military campaign in Middle Shabelle under the codename “Hidden Storm.”
The mission aims to retake villages and towns recently seized by al-Shabaab following tactical withdrawals of government forces.
A high-level delegation, including the Somali Minister of Defense and Mogadishu Mayor Hassan Mohamed “Muungaab,” arrived in the region to coordinate with the Somali National Army and local militia forces, known as Ma’awisley, who are playing a vital role in supporting the offensive.
The Main Goal of Somalia Military Campaign
A government official told state media, “This marks the beginning of a new stage in our national offensive against terrorism.
Our ultimate goal is to liberate the entire region from extremist control.”
Since 2022, Somali forces, backed by local militias and international allies, have reclaimed large swathes of territory in central and southern Somalia.
However, al-Shabaab continues to maintain control over vast rural areas and has carried out deadly attacks, even in the capital Mogadishu.
U.S. Offers $10 Million Bounty for ISIS Financial Network
In a related development, the United States announced a reward of $10 million for information leading to the disruption of the financial networks of the Islamic State (ISIS) branch in Somalia.
According to a joint statement by the U.S. Departments of Justice and State, ISIS in Somalia is a key financial hub for the group’s global operations.
The network reportedly relies on illegal taxation, extortion of local communities, smuggling, money laundering, kidnapping for ransom, arms trafficking, piracy, poaching, and facilitating unlawful travel.
The statement stressed that these illicit financial flows directly undermine Somalia’s stability and contribute to insecurity across the Horn of Africa.
Local and International Support for Somalia Military Campaign Against al-Shabaab
Somalia military campaign against al-Shabaab and the international cooperation against ISIS financing—underscores the government’s determination to restore stability and security.
With continued support from local militias and global partners, Somalia is seeking to weaken extremist networks and reclaim full sovereignty over its territory.
