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Somalia voted on Monday in favor of a United States–drafted resolution at the UN Security Council that supports President Donald Trump’s plan to end the war in Gaza and authorizes the creation of an international stabilization force for the territory. The resolution passed with 13 votes in favor, while Russia and China chose to abstain, allowing the measure to be adopted.
Somali government forces on Sunday repelled a coordinated al-Shabab attack on military positions in the Jabad Godane area of the Middle Shabelle region, following an explosion and hours of intense fighting, according to the Ministry of Defense. The attack, which began in the early hours of the morning, was described as a deliberate attempt by the militant group to overrun Somali National Army positions in the area.
In an official statement, the Ministry said Somali National Army (SNA) troops successfully foiled the assault and have since regained full control of Jabad Godane. Officials explained that the attackers launched the operation with a powerful explosion, believed to have been carried out by a suicide bomber, before armed fighters moved in on army bases from multiple directions. Government forces responded quickly, engaging the militants in heavy clashes that lasted for several hours.
The Defense Ministry did not provide specific casualty figures from the fighting. However, residents living near the area reported that a significant number of al-Shabab fighters were killed during the confrontation. These reports could not be independently verified, but authorities maintained that the group suffered losses and failed to achieve its objectives. Military officials emphasized that no ground was lost during the attack and that SNA units maintained their positions throughout the battle.
Following the clashes, Somali forces launched a large-scale follow-up operation aimed at tracking down remaining militants who may be hiding in nearby areas. The Ministry said the operation includes reconnaissance missions and detailed security sweeps to ensure the attackers do not regroup or attempt further disruptions. The focus, officials added, is not only on neutralizing armed elements but also on restoring calm and reassuring local communities that their safety remains a priority.
The latest attack comes at a time when government forces have increased pressure on al-Shabab in Middle Shabelle. In recent days, the SNA, working with local allies, has stepped up military operations in several parts of the region, particularly around areas near Warsheekh district. These operations are part of a broader national campaign aimed at weakening the group’s presence along key supply routes and movement corridors that are critical to its operations.
Jabad Godane is located in an area that has seen repeated clashes over the years, making it a familiar battleground in the fight against al-Shabab. The group has continued to carry out complex attacks that combine explosions with ground assaults, even as it faces sustained military pressure from Somali forces and their partners. Security officials say this pattern reflects the group’s attempt to show resilience and disrupt ongoing stabilization efforts.
The Somali National Army reiterated its commitment to continuing operations against al-Shabab, stressing that the long-term goal is to secure all liberated areas and protect civilians from further violence. Military leaders said holding territory is just as important as clearing it, noting that efforts are underway to strengthen security measures and prevent militants from returning once they are pushed out.
Al-Shabab, which is linked to al-Qaida, has frequently targeted military bases and security installations across Middle Shabelle. The region is considered strategically important because it connects Mogadishu to central Somalia and parts of the eastern coastline. Control of this area has significant implications for both security and economic activity, which is why it remains a key focus of government operations.
Authorities say Sunday’s failed attack demonstrates the growing readiness of Somali forces to respond to complex threats and underscores their determination to deny al-Shabab the ability to destabilize communities. As operations continue, the government has urged residents to cooperate with security forces and report any suspicious movements to help maintain peace and stability in the region.