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Somali government and partners target militant hideout in Basra, disrupting operations in key area between Balcad and Afgooye
On Friday night, an airstrike reportedly targeted Al-Shabaab militants in the Basra area, a location between the towns of Balcad and Afgooye in Somalia. The attack was said to be carried out by the Somali government with support from international partners.
Residents in the area reported hearing several loud explosions during the night. According to local sources, the strike hit a site commonly used by senior members of Al-Shabaab. The main target appears to have been a base used by the group on the outskirts of Basra.
Although the Somali government has not officially confirmed the operation, reports from the ground suggest that the strike may have caused heavy losses for Al-Shabaab. The number of casualties remains unclear at this time.
This airstrike comes as part of a growing campaign to weaken Al-Shabaab, a militant group that has caused instability in Somalia for many years. Basra is considered a key location due to its position between two important towns and its history as a base for armed groups. By targeting such areas, the Somali military and its allies aim to disrupt the group’s operations and reduce their ability to move and plan attacks.
The international community, especially the United States, has increased airstrikes in Somalia in recent years. These operations focus on destroying hideouts, training camps, and supply routes used by Al-Shabaab and other extremist groups like ISIS. While the Somali government often works closely with these partners, not every mission is officially announced.
The strike in Basra is seen as part of this broader effort to eliminate militant threats. It reflects a strategic push to prevent Al-Shabaab from regrouping or strengthening its presence in southern and central Somalia.
Al-Shabaab, an extremist group linked to al-Qaeda, has been fighting against the Somali government for over a decade. Despite losing control of many urban areas, the group still carries out deadly attacks in the country. They often use remote areas like Basra to train fighters and plan their operations.
Local reports say this strike may have disrupted some of those activities. By hitting a location used by top leaders, it could impact the group’s ability to organize attacks or recruit new members.
While more details are expected in the coming days, this latest airstrike shows that the fight against terrorism in Somalia is ongoing. It highlights the role of both Somali forces and their international allies in trying to restore peace and stability in the region.
Residents in nearby towns continue to hope for lasting security, as many areas still face threats from armed groups. For now, the situation in Basra remains tense, and people are waiting for official updates from the government regarding the results of the operation.