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U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) carried out airstrikes against al-Shabaab militants in Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region on December 18, 2025, following renewed fighting between the group and Somali government forces, according to an official statement.
The airstrikes targeted areas near Nur Dugle, a rural town located about 215 kilometers northeast of Mogadishu. The operation was conducted in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia and the Somali Armed Forces as part of ongoing efforts to weaken al-Shabaab’s operational capacity in central Somalia.
In its statement, AFRICOM said the strikes were aimed at degrading the militant group’s ability to plan and carry out attacks that pose a threat not only to Somalia but also to U.S. interests and partners. The command emphasized that its actions are focused on supporting Somali forces and improving long-term security in the region.
The air operation came just hours after al-Shabaab fighters launched an attack on positions held by Somali government troops and allied local militias in and around Nur Dugle. The assault triggered intense clashes that lasted several hours, with both sides reportedly using a mix of light and heavy weapons.
Residents living near the area told local media outlets that they heard sustained gunfire and loud explosions throughout the fighting. Some said the sounds could be heard from villages several kilometers away, forcing families to remain indoors out of fear for their safety. The clashes reportedly disrupted normal movement in the area, with roads temporarily becoming unsafe to use.
Although the fighting was described as intense, officials have not yet released confirmed casualty figures. Preliminary reports from local sources suggest that both sides suffered deaths and injuries during the confrontation, but the exact numbers remain unclear as assessments continue.
Nur Dugle and surrounding areas in Middle Shabelle have long been contested due to their strategic importance. The region connects several key towns and supply routes, making it a frequent target for al-Shabaab attacks. The militant group has repeatedly attempted to overrun government positions there in an effort to regain territory and disrupt stabilization efforts.
Somali government forces, backed by local militias, have been working to secure the region as part of a broader campaign to push al-Shabaab out of central Somalia. These efforts have included ground operations, intelligence-led raids, and support from international partners such as AFRICOM.
AFRICOM has not provided details on the number of militants targeted in the latest airstrikes or whether any civilian harm occurred. The command stated that it continues to take measures to minimize risks to civilians and regularly conducts assessments after operations to evaluate their impact.
The latest developments highlight the ongoing security challenges facing Somalia as it continues its fight against al-Shabaab. Despite sustained military pressure, the group remains capable of launching coordinated attacks, particularly in rural areas where government control is still being consolidated.
As Somali forces and their allies maintain operations in Middle Shabelle, residents in affected areas continue to bear the impact of recurring violence. Local authorities say restoring stability and ensuring civilian safety remain key priorities as military efforts against al-Shabaab continue.