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Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), working closely with international security partners, carried out a targeted airstrike on Wednesday against a high-level meeting of militant leaders in the Middle Juba region. The operation took place in Bu’aale district and focused on a compound believed to be a safe house used by senior commanders of al-Shabab, the al-Qaida-linked armed group.
Security officials said the location was under active surveillance after intelligence confirmed that top figures within the group were gathered there for strategic discussions. The meeting was reportedly aimed at planning future operations and coordinating activities across different parts of the country. Acting on this information, Somali authorities authorized the strike in an effort to deal a serious blow to the group’s leadership structure.
According to officials familiar with the operation, the mission was carefully planned and intelligence-led. It was designed not only to target individuals but also to weaken al-Shabab’s ability to organize, plan, and carry out attacks. By striking a command-level meeting, authorities believe the group’s decision-making and coordination networks were significantly disrupted.
The strike was described by security sources as heavy and precise, reflecting an increased level of confidence and operational capacity by Somali forces and their partners. The fact that the operation was conducted deep inside Middle Juba, an area long considered a stronghold for al-Shabab, was seen as a clear signal that previously inaccessible territories are no longer beyond reach.
Officials emphasized that this operation forms part of a broader and sustained campaign to pressure the group’s leadership. In recent months, Somali forces, with international backing, have increased both air and ground operations aimed at dismantling militant networks, cutting off supply routes, and targeting key figures who play central roles in planning attacks.
While the strike is believed to have caused significant damage, authorities said details regarding the identities of those targeted and the number of casualties were still being verified. They cautioned that such assessments take time, especially in areas where access is limited and information must be carefully confirmed. The federal government stated that once verification is complete, it will release accurate and confirmed information to the public.
Middle Juba has for years remained one of al-Shabab’s most entrenched regions. The group has used the area as a base for leadership activities, logistics, training, and coordination of operations across southern Somalia. Its dense terrain and limited government presence in the past made it difficult for security forces to operate freely.
However, officials say the latest operation reflects a shift in the security landscape. Somali authorities argue that improved intelligence capabilities, stronger cooperation with international partners, and sustained pressure on militant networks are gradually reducing the group’s ability to operate with impunity. The strike in Bu’aale is being presented as evidence of this growing reach and determination.
The government has reiterated its commitment to continuing operations against al-Shabab until the group’s capacity to threaten civilians and state institutions is significantly reduced. Security officials stressed that targeting leadership figures is a key part of this strategy, as it creates confusion within the group and limits its ability to launch coordinated attacks.
As operations continue, authorities urged the public to rely on verified information and avoid speculation while assessments are ongoing. They also reaffirmed that protecting civilians remains a priority in all security actions. The latest strike, officials say, marks another step in a long-term effort to restore stability and weaken militant influence across Somalia.