Somali Magazine
Puntland’s military offensive, supported by UAE and U.S. airstrikes, targets IS strongholds in the Cal Miskaad mountains, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides
Nearly 70 people were killed and about 50 others injured in 24 hours of intense fighting between Islamic State (IS) militants and Puntland security forces in Somalia. The clashes took place in the mountainous areas of Dharin and Qurac in Puntland’s Bari region, marking one of the most violent confrontations in recent times.
Deadly Clashes Between Puntland Forces and IS Militants
Heavy Casualties on Both Sides
According to security officials, at least 15 Puntland soldiers and over 50 IS fighters lost their lives during the battle. Puntland military spokesperson Brigadier General Mohamud Mohamed Ahmed confirmed that 57 IS militants were killed, all of whom were reportedly foreigners. He emphasized that the terrain played a major role in the high number of casualties, as the militants used improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in their defense.
The Hilac Campaign and Military Offensive
The fighting began on Tuesday as part of an ongoing military operation launched by Puntland authorities last month. This offensive, named the “Hilac Campaign,” aims to drive IS fighters out of their hideouts in the remote mountains of Puntland. The militants have been using these mountainous regions as bases to launch attacks and maintain their influence in the area.
Unverified Reports and Social Media Footage
Graphic video footage circulating on social media allegedly shows the aftermath of the battle, with bodies of IS fighters scattered across the rugged landscape. However, these claims have not been independently verified.
UAE and US Airstrikes in Support of Puntland Forces
To support Puntland forces, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) launched a drone strike against IS militants on Tuesday night. This comes just days after the United States carried out an airstrike targeting high-ranking IS members in Somalia. U.S. President Donald Trump announced the strike, stating that a senior IS attack planner and other key operatives had been eliminated. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressed gratitude to the U.S. for its continued support in the fight against terrorism.
Strategic Gains for Puntland Military
The Puntland military claims to have gained significant ground, successfully capturing the strategic village of Dharin. A statement from Puntland authorities declared that their troops had expelled IS fighters from multiple locations along the Togga Jecel area. This marks a major step in their efforts to weaken the group’s operational capabilities in the region.
Public Support for the Anti-Terrorism Campaign
Puntland’s leader, Said Abdullahi Deni, has urged the public to support the military campaign, which he describes as a crucial mission to eliminate terrorism from the region. The operation has received widespread support from local residents. On Monday, hundreds of people in Bosaso, Puntland’s commercial hub, took to the streets to protest against IS and show their backing for the government forces.
Challenges in Cooperation with the Federal Government
Despite Puntland’s military efforts, challenges remain. The region has a complicated relationship with Somalia’s federal government, marked by political tensions and disagreements. This strained relationship has hindered cooperation between Puntland and the central government, making it harder to coordinate anti-terrorism efforts. Security experts warn that defeating IS requires more than just Puntland’s efforts and that national-level support is essential. Former Somali Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmake stressed the need for collaboration, stating that regional forces alone cannot handle such operations without federal government assistance.
Call for National Unity Against Terrorism
Brigadier General Abdirahman Turyare, a former national intelligence chief, also emphasized the importance of unity in combating terrorism. He urged Somali politicians to put aside political differences and focus on national security, warning that conflicts between the federal and regional governments should not interfere with efforts to eliminate terrorist threats.
Puntland Forces Engage in Fierce Battle Against IS Militants in Somalia’s Bari Region
The Islamic State’s presence in Puntland remains a serious concern. Although IS is smaller in Somalia compared to the al-Qaida-linked al-Shabab group, intelligence reports indicate that IS is expanding its operations in the region. Previously, IS was believed to have between 100 and 400 fighters in Somalia, but recent estimates suggest that number has grown to between 500 and 600. Many of these recruits are said to come from the Middle East, as well as eastern and northern Africa.
The Long-Term Battle Against IS
Puntland has experienced numerous terrorist attacks from both IS and al-Shabab. However, the current military operation appears to be focused primarily on dismantling IS strongholds. Security experts caution that as long as IS continues to recruit fighters and maintain safe havens in Puntland’s difficult terrain, the threat will persist.
For now, Puntland forces are pushing forward with their campaign, determined to remove IS from their territory. Whether their efforts will lead to long-term success remains to be seen, but with growing support from local residents and international allies, Puntland is making significant strides in its battle against extremist groups.