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In a bold and compassionate stance, Puntland’s Minister of Justice, Abdirahman Mohamed, has called for the protection of women and children associated with ISIS fighters, emphasizing that they should not be targeted in ongoing conflicts. Speaking at a press briefing in Garowe, the minister highlighted the importance of distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants, urging authorities to uphold humanitarian principles even in the face of security challenges.
The minister’s remarks come amid intensified operations by Puntland’s security forces against ISIS-affiliated militants in the mountainous regions of Bari. These operations, aimed at dismantling the group’s strongholds, have raised concerns about the potential collateral impact on vulnerable populations, including women and children who may be living in militant-controlled areas. Minister Mohamed stressed that while the fight against terrorism is critical, it must not come at the expense of innocent lives.
“Women and children associated with ISIS fighters are often victims themselves, coerced into these situations or left with no choice. They should not bear the brunt of actions taken against combatants,” Mohamed stated. He called for a more nuanced approach to counterterrorism operations, one that prioritizes the safety and rehabilitation of non-combatants while targeting active militants.
The minister also urged international organizations and humanitarian agencies to step up their support for Puntland’s efforts to address the complex challenges posed by terrorism. He emphasized the need for programs that provide psychosocial support, education, and reintegration opportunities for women and children affected by conflict. “We must break the cycle of violence by offering these individuals a chance to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society,” he added.
Puntland’s stance on the issue has drawn praise from human rights advocates, who have long called for greater attention to the plight of women and children in conflict zones. Amnesty International and other organizations have highlighted the risks faced by these vulnerable groups, including exploitation, stigmatization, and lack of access to basic services. Minister Mohamed’s comments are seen as a step toward addressing these concerns and ensuring that counterterrorism efforts align with international humanitarian standards.
However, the minister’s position has also sparked debate within Puntland, with some critics arguing that it could complicate security operations. They contend that distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants in militant-controlled areas is a challenging task that could hinder the effectiveness of military campaigns. Others have raised concerns about the potential for ISIS fighters to exploit humanitarian protections as a shield for their activities.
Despite these challenges, Minister Mohamed remains steadfast in his advocacy for a balanced approach to counterterrorism. He called on Puntland’s security forces to exercise caution and restraint in their operations, ensuring that their actions do not inadvertently harm innocent civilians. “Our fight against terrorism must be guided by the principles of justice and humanity. We cannot afford to lose our moral compass,” he said.
The issue of how to handle women and children associated with militant groups is not unique to Puntland. Across the globe, governments and humanitarian organizations are grappling with the complexities of addressing the needs of these individuals while ensuring security and accountability. Minister Mohamed’s remarks add to the growing discourse on the importance of adopting a holistic approach to counterterrorism, one that addresses the root causes of extremism and prioritizes the protection of vulnerable populations.
As Puntland continues its efforts to combat ISIS and other militant groups, the focus remains on striking a delicate balance between security and humanity. Minister Mohamed’s call for the protection of women and children serves as a reminder of the need for compassion and justice in the face of adversity.