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Middle Shabelle fully recaptured as government intensifies military campaign against militant group
Somalia’s Defense Minister, Ahmed Moalim Faqi, has announced that government forces have successfully taken full control of the Middle Shabelle region, removing the Al Shabaab militant group from one of its key strongholds.
In a statement released on Friday, the Minister praised the Somali National Army (SNA) and local resistance groups for their efforts in the fight against the Al Qaeda-linked insurgent group. He described this victory as a major turning point in the country’s ongoing battle against terrorism.
“This marks the beginning of a new and decisive phase in our struggle,” said Faqi. “The efforts of our armed forces and the support from local communities have played a vital role in this achievement.”
Over recent days, the Somali army has intensified its operations against Al Shabaab, targeting the group’s fighters and leaders. These operations have resulted in heavy losses for the militants and the recovery of several key areas across Somalia’s central and southern regions.
One of the most critical battles took place earlier this week in the southeastern part of the country. Somali forces, working closely with local resistance groups, launched an attack on Al Shabaab fighters hiding in forested areas near the border between Hiraan and Middle Shabelle provinces.
According to the Defense Minister, this joint operation was successful in forcing the militants out of their hiding places, dealing a heavy blow to the group’s influence in the region. With the loss of Middle Shabelle, Al Shabaab has been stripped of one of its most important bases in Somalia.
Faqi called on Somali political leaders to remain united during this critical time. He urged them to avoid any political divisions or negative statements that could damage the ongoing efforts against Al Shabaab.
“Our fight requires national unity. We must put aside our differences and focus on defeating this threat together,” he said.
Al Shabaab has been waging a violent insurgency in Somalia for over a decade, aiming to impose its own harsh version of Islamic law. Despite losing control of major cities in recent years, the group has continued to carry out deadly attacks and maintain control over rural areas.
However, the recent string of victories by the Somali military suggests a shift in momentum. With help from local resistance forces, the government has been able to push the group out of several strategic areas, weakening their presence and disrupting their operations.
The recapture of the Middle Shabelle region is seen as one of the biggest victories yet. The area was not only a geographic stronghold for Al Shabaab but also an important source of resources and a strategic base for launching attacks.
The Defense Minister’s message reflects growing confidence within the Somali government that the tide may finally be turning in their long fight against the militants. He emphasized that continued cooperation between the army, local communities, and political leaders would be essential in building on these recent successes.
As the military pushes forward, the Somali government is expected to focus on securing the liberated areas and providing essential services to local communities. Ensuring stability and preventing the return of militants will be a key part of the next phase.
With Middle Shabelle now under government control, Somalia’s fight against Al Shabaab moves into a crucial new chapter — one that the Defense Minister hopes will bring lasting peace and security to the region.