Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
Operation Lightning targets Islamic State bases in Somalia’s Golis Mountains as U.S. airstrikes and Puntland forces intensify efforts to dismantle the terror group’s leadership
The Puntland state of Somalia has launched a major military operation called Operation Lightning to eliminate the Islamic State (IS) group from the Golis Mountains in the northeast of the country. This offensive has been in preparation for months and aims to weaken IS-Somalia’s leadership and operational base.
Why This Fight Matters
Recent reports from the United Nations (U.N.) suggest that Abdulqadir Mumin, the leader of IS-Somalia, may also be the global leader of the Islamic State. Previously, he was believed to be in charge of IS’s African branches, but new intelligence suggests that the group is shifting leadership away from Iraq and Syria.
This shift indicates that IS is changing its strategy, moving towards a more decentralized structure. IS-Somalia has established a stronghold in Buur Dhexaad, a mountainous area filled with natural caves that protect fighters from aerial and ground attacks.
U.S. Airstrikes Target IS Leaders
On February 1, the United States military carried out airstrikes on these caves, killing several key IS commanders. Among those killed was Ahmed Maeleninine, an important recruiter and financer who was responsible for sending militants to the U.S. and Europe.
Puntland’s Progress
Since the launch of Operation Lightning on December 31, Puntland security forces claim to have:
Killed over 200 IS fighters, including many foreigners.
Captured 50 bases previously controlled by IS.
Taken control of 250 square kilometers of territory.
Puntland’s Information Minister, Mohammed Aided, has called on the international community for support, requesting weapons, anti-mine equipment, and technology to counter IS drones. He described the conflict as an international war on terror that requires global cooperation.
Challenges Facing IS-Somalia
Despite its rapid growth, IS-Somalia is facing internal difficulties. According to the U.N., the group is struggling with:
Clan-based divisions that make it hard to recruit fighters.
Cultural barriers that prevent foreign fighters from fully integrating.
Harsh living conditions, leading to many defections.
IS-Somalia has also been using drones for surveillance and limited explosive attacks, with plans to develop suicide drones for future operations.
Major Blow to IS Leadership
On February 3, a senior IS commander named Abdirahman Shirwac, also known as “Laahoor,” surrendered to Puntland security forces. He was responsible for assassinations and extortion of businesses in the region. Puntland officials said his surrender was a big loss for IS-Somalia’s operations.
More IS Strongholds Targeted
On February 4, Puntland forces attacked one of IS’s last remaining bases in Dharin, about 17 kilometers from Turmasaale. The battle resulted in the deaths of at least 24 foreign fighters.
The next day, Puntland’s military continued advancing into IS-controlled areas, taking control of more bases and killing many foreign IS fighters. A former Puntland police and intelligence chief, Abdi Hassan Hussein, stated that while this operation is crucial for Somalia’s security, the fight will not be easy.
“The terrain is difficult, and troops have to engage in guerrilla warfare, which may prolong the conflict,” he explained.
What’s Next?
Puntland’s military campaign is one of the most serious challenges IS-Somalia has faced in years. However, experts warn that eliminating IS completely will take time due to the region’s rough geography and the militants’ strong defenses.
For now, Puntland remains determined to push forward, calling for international support to help defeat IS in Somalia and secure the region from future threats.