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Somali government forces, working alongside international partners, have killed at least 150 Al-Shabab militants during an intensive military campaign in the Middle Shabelle region that has been ongoing for more than two weeks, according to the country’s defense minister. The operations are part of a broader national effort to weaken the armed group and restore stability in areas long affected by violence.
Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi said the offensive focused mainly on the Jabad Godane area and surrounding locations, which he described as one of Al-Shabab’s most important strongholds in central Somalia. He confirmed that those killed included six senior commanders, dealing a significant blow to the group’s leadership structure in the region.
Speaking to the media, Fiqi praised the Somali National Army for its performance and emphasized that the success of the operation was achieved through determination, coordination, and external support. He said government forces, backed by international allies, were able to clear militants from areas they had controlled for years, allowing security forces to regain ground and secure key routes.
The defense minister said the Middle Shabelle operation is part of a wider campaign targeting Al-Shabab across central and southern Somalia. He pointed to recent clashes in the Kudhaa area of the Lower Juba region, where government troops and allied forces repelled a prolonged militant attack. According to officials, more than 200 Al-Shabab fighters were killed during those confrontations, marking another major setback for the group.
Fiqi highlighted the role played by elite Danab special forces and Jubbaland regional troops in the Lower Juba fighting, saying their discipline and coordination were crucial to the outcome. He said the results from both Middle Shabelle and Lower Juba show that Somalia’s security forces are becoming stronger, more capable, and better organized.
“These victories prove that the Somali National Army is able to defend the country and protect its people,” Fiqi said, rejecting claims from critics who have questioned the army’s unity and effectiveness. He added that continued progress on the battlefield would help build public confidence and encourage displaced communities to return home.
The defense minister also expressed gratitude to international partners, particularly Türkiye and the United States, for their continued support. He said their assistance included air support, intelligence sharing, and military equipment, all of which played an important role in the recent operations. Fiqi noted that cooperation with international allies remains essential as Somalia works to eliminate remaining militant networks.
Al-Shabab has not issued any response to the government’s claims regarding casualty figures or the loss of senior leaders. The group often carries out high-profile attacks on military bases, government institutions, and civilian targets but rarely confirms losses reported by Somali authorities.
The latest fighting comes as Somalia steps up its nationwide campaign against the al-Qaida-linked group, aiming to dismantle its remaining strongholds and prevent it from regrouping. Federal forces, together with local militias and regional administrations, are seeking to secure liberated areas, reopen supply routes, and restore basic services to communities affected by years of conflict.
Officials say the government remains committed to sustaining military pressure while also focusing on stabilization and governance in recovered territories. As operations continue, authorities hope the recent gains will weaken Al-Shabab’s ability to launch attacks and bring the country closer to lasting peace and security.