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In Somalia’s northeastern state of Puntland, ISIS militants have been solidifying their position in the Al Madow and Al Miskat mountain ranges, making the region a significant hotspot for insurgent activity. Intelligence reports reveal that the group has established fortified bases in strategic locations, including Moqoro, Dhabanado, Anjeel, and Sido, utilizing the terrain’s natural challenges to evade capture.
The Balade Valley, which serves as a critical corridor to Bosaso—a vital economic hub—has been heavily fortified with new roads and networks that allow militants to move supplies and personnel seamlessly. These routes also extend to coastal areas near the Indian Ocean, increasing their operational reach.
Economic and Logistical Challenges
ISIS’s presence has already begun disrupting Puntland’s economic stability. Businesses in Bosaso, the state’s commercial capital, report extortion demands from the group, forcing some enterprises to shut down. The Al Miskat mountains’ labyrinthine terrain compounds these issues, posing significant logistical challenges for Puntland’s security forces.
The dry season from November to January presents further obstacles, with harsh weather conditions hindering military operations and resupply efforts. Puntland security officials have acknowledged these challenges but remain committed to pushing ISIS out of the region.
Local and International Implications
Puntland Vice President Ahmed Elmi has called for community support in the fight against ISIS, emphasizing the importance of civilian cooperation in countering the group’s influence. Despite these efforts, ISIS’s entrenchment in Puntland has raised alarms beyond Somalia’s borders.
Experts warn that the militant group’s expansion threatens to destabilize the Horn of Africa further, a region already grappling with piracy, clan conflicts, and Al-Shabaab insurgency. Puntland, previously viewed as a relatively stable part of Somalia, now faces mounting pressure to address this growing insurgency effectively.
Regional and International Response
Analysts suggest that defeating ISIS in Puntland will require a coordinated response involving regional allies and international partners. The Puntland government is under increasing pressure to adapt its military strategies to counter an enemy that thrives in the rugged and remote terrain.
As the group continues to grow its footprint, addressing the threat will necessitate a blend of military operations, community involvement, and international cooperation.