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Prominent Somali opposition leaders have thrown their weight behind the ongoing military campaign against Al-Shabaab and ISIS, calling for a unified national strategy to permanently eliminate extremist threats.
Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame issued a joint statement commending the efforts of the Somali National Army (SNA), regional paramilitary forces, and local militias fighting militants in Middle Shabelle, Puntland, and Bari. However, they warned that Somalia’s deep political divisions and inconsistent security policies have hindered counterterrorism progress.
According to the opposition figures, the only way to achieve lasting peace and security is through national unity, cohesion, and an inclusive political strategy. They urged President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to develop a comprehensive national mobilization plan to ensure that terrorist groups do not regain ground.
The call for unity comes as Somalia intensifies military operations against Al-Shabaab and ISIS. In November 2024, Puntland’s security forces launched “Operation Hillaac,” targeting ISIS strongholds in the Al Miskaad mountains. The operation resulted in the capture of 250 square kilometers of territory and 50 militant bases, dealing a major blow to ISIS in northern Somalia. Meanwhile, the SNA, with U.S. air support, recently launched precision strikes against Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle. A February 25, 2025, U.S. airstrike near Al-Kowsar reportedly eliminated key militant operatives, according to U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).
Despite these military victories, Al-Shabaab remains a persistent threat, retreating into rural areas and launching asymmetrical attacks. Security experts caution that while military efforts are essential, they must be complemented by stronger governance, intelligence-sharing, and stabilization programs.
While supporting the military offensive, the opposition leaders criticized President Mohamud’s administration for prioritizing political disputes over national security. They argued that federal-regional tensions have weakened Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts. The leaders pointed to the December 2024 clashes in Raskamboni, where federal troops and Jubaland regional forces fought over a disputed local election, as an example of how internal divisions could allow Al-Shabaab to regain lost territories.
Former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo also weighed in on the debate, emphasizing the importance of unity in the fight against Al-Shabaab and ISIS. In a statement earlier this week, he praised the SNA for its sacrifices and warned that militant groups exploit political instability to prolong their insurgency.
The opposition leaders called for a reassessment of Somalia’s counterterrorism strategy, advocating for a national mobilization plan that integrates military operations with intelligence efforts and governance reforms. They stressed that Somalia must avoid the cycle of temporary military victories followed by militant resurgence.
To support Somalia’s security efforts, the United Nations Security Council approved the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in December 2024. The mission deploys over 12,600 personnel to assist Somali forces in the fight against Al-Shabaab.
The opposition leaders warned that without immediate political reforms, Somalia risks further instability. They urged President Mohamud to resolve ongoing disputes with regional states, strengthen security coordination, and restore national unity to ensure a more effective counterterrorism campaign. According to their statement, the President must act as a neutral leader in security affairs and address constitutional disputes that have divided the country.
With Somalia at a critical juncture in its fight against terrorism, the opposition’s call for unity and strategic reform underscores the importance of a coordinated, long-term approach. Without addressing political divisions and governance challenges, experts warn that military operations alone may not be enough to bring lasting security to the nation.