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President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reaffirms commitment to defeating Al-Shabaab while honoring injured troops returning from battle in Middle Shabelle
MOGADISHU, Somalia — At Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud personally welcomed injured Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers who had been engaged in fierce battles against the Al-Shabaab militant group in HirShabelle state.
The wounded soldiers had sustained injuries during recent military operations in the Middle Shabelle region, where the Somali government forces have been engaged in ongoing efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s strongholds. Upon their arrival, President Mohamud met with the troops, offering them words of encouragement and support. He praised their bravery and unwavering dedication to safeguarding Somalia from extremist threats.
In his address, President Mohamud expressed profound gratitude for the sacrifices made by the soldiers in the fight against terrorism. He extended his prayers for their swift recovery and reaffirmed his administration’s steadfast commitment to eradicating Al-Shabaab from Somalia. The president emphasized that the government would continue to bolster military efforts and provide necessary resources to ensure that Somalia remains resilient in the face of terrorist threats.
This reception of wounded soldiers highlights the government’s ongoing campaign to support its armed forces, both in combat and in their recovery from the battlefield. The government has been making concerted efforts to improve medical and rehabilitation services for injured soldiers, recognizing their vital role in securing the nation’s stability.
The battle against Al-Shabaab has been a protracted struggle, with the militant group persistently launching attacks across various regions in Somalia. Linked to Al-Qaeda, Al-Shabaab has long sought to destabilize the country by targeting government institutions, military bases, and civilian populations. Despite sustained counteroffensive operations by the Somali National Army, backed by international partners, the group remains a formidable threat, frequently resorting to guerrilla tactics and suicide bombings.
In recent weeks, the Middle Shabelle region has witnessed intensified clashes between Somali government forces and Al-Shabaab militants. The terrorist group has attempted to reclaim its former strongholds by launching a series of coordinated attacks against Somali army bases in the region. However, Somali forces, with the backing of international partners, have successfully repelled these offensives, inflicting significant losses on the insurgents.
President Mohamud has consistently reiterated that eliminating Al-Shabaab is a top priority for his administration. Under his leadership, the Somali government has launched multiple military offensives aimed at dismantling the group’s operational capacity. In addition to military strategies, the government has implemented socio-economic and ideological countermeasures to curb Al-Shabaab’s influence, including deradicalization programs and efforts to cut off the group’s financial networks.
The Federal Government of Somalia continues to work closely with regional states, international allies, and African Union forces to weaken Al-Shabaab’s grip on various territories. Collaborative military operations have led to the recapture of key towns and strategic locations, significantly reducing the militants’ capacity to launch large-scale attacks. However, sporadic violence persists as the group adapts its tactics in response to government offensives.
The recent arrival of wounded soldiers in Mogadishu underscores the reality of the ongoing conflict and the sacrifices made by Somali troops. It also serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the Somali people and their armed forces in the face of terrorism.
Looking ahead, the Somali government remains resolute in its mission to restore lasting peace and security. With continued military pressure, strategic counterterrorism measures, and support for the nation’s soldiers, the fight against Al-Shabaab remains a defining battle for the future of Somalia. President Mohamud’s reception of the injured troops symbolizes national solidarity, reinforcing the country’s commitment to standing with those who risk their lives to defend Somalia from extremist threats.