Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia’s State Minister of Defense, H.E. Omar Ali Abdi, has sparked controversy after stating that the government is prepared to carry out airstrikes in areas where civilians live alongside the terrorist group Al-Shabaab. The remarks, made during a recent public address, have raised serious concerns about potential civilian casualties and the government’s military strategy.
The minister suggested that residents in Al-Shabaab-controlled areas could be considered enemy targets, drawing criticism from human rights groups and political analysts. Many warn that such an approach would amount to collective punishment and could violate international humanitarian laws.
Concerns Over Civilian Safety
The Somali government has been intensifying its offensive against Al-Shabaab, with the support of international allies, including the United States and the African Union. However, the latest remarks suggest a shift in strategy that could put civilians at greater risk.
Human rights advocates argue that many people living in Al-Shabaab-controlled areas have no choice but to remain there, often under threat from the militants.
“This statement is extremely dangerous,” said a Somali human rights activist. “The government has a duty to protect its citizens, not target them. Many civilians in these areas are victims, not collaborators.”
International Backlash
The minister’s comments have drawn widespread condemnation from international organizations, including Amnesty International, which called for an immediate clarification of Somalia’s military policy.
“Deliberately targeting civilians would be a violation of international law and could lead to war crimes,” a spokesperson for the organization said.
Analysts also warn that indiscriminate airstrikes could fuel further instability and push more civilians toward Al-Shabaab, deepening Somalia’s security crisis.
Government Yet to Clarify Stance
The Somali government has not yet issued an official statement to clarify whether H.E. Omar Ali Abdi’s remarks reflect an official policy. Meanwhile, opposition leaders and civil society groups are calling for immediate assurances that military operations will focus solely on Al-Shabaab fighters and not civilians.
As tensions rise, many fear that an escalation in airstrikes could have devastating consequences for the civilian population, worsening the humanitarian situation in Somalia.