The US Africa Command, in cooperation with Somali forces, executed a "well-coordinated" strike late Wednesday against militants who attacked the town of Adan Yabaal, located to the north of the capital, Mogadishu. The Somali information ministry reported that the airstrike killed 12 al-Shabab members, including key leaders. This operation follows a surge of militant attacks in Somalia, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of extremist activity in the region, particularly after a recent assassination attempt involving President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's convoy.
Al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda-linked jihadist group, has maintained a prolonged insurgency lasting nearly 20 years, with aspirations to overthrow the current government and impose an extremist regime. Despite significant military pressure, including interventions from the African Union-led peacekeeping forces that pushed the group onto the defensive in previous years, al-Shabab continues to pose a serious threat to stability in Somalia.
According to the Somali government's statements, the recent airstrike targeted a site known as a hideout for militants, aiming to neutralize future attacks. They reported no civilian casualties resulting from the operation. Adan Yabaal, captured by al-Shabab in 2016 and recaptured by government forces in 2022, holds strategic importance in efforts to combat the militants.
However, local residents have reported that al-Shabab has regained control over parts of the town since the fighting erupted, featuring fierce combat and heavy explosions. The Somali government has remained reticent about the current situation in Adan Yabaal, even as it acknowledges the challenges presented by the returning militants.
In a separate military engagement near Baidoa, the Somali army reported eliminating at least 35 militants attempting to assault a military base. President Mohamud has asserted that while setbacks on the battlefield are expected, his administration remains resolved to eradicate the al-Shabab threat and restore peace.
